2005 Ford Explorer vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 101 kg more than 2005 Ford Explorer.
Because 2005 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Ford Explorer (344 Nm) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Explorer | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
