2008 Audi S5 vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 Audi S5 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, 2008 Audi S5 (354 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (236 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S5 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 317 kg more than 2008 Audi S5.
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 S5 (441 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi S5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi S5 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi S5 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 S5 | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | S5 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 354 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 441 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 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 | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 2082 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2840 mm |
