2008 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 299 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 279 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2009 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 292 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 85 L |
