2008 Audi A4 vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2008 Audi A4. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 407 kg more than 2008 Audi A4. 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A4. (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A4. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A4 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 2082 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2840 mm |
