2006 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 100 kg more than 2006 Audi A3.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 2002 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3188 cc | 4015 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 59 L |
