2008 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 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 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Explorer weights approximately 405 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Explorer. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2005 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2005 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2005 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
