2008 Ford Explorer vs. 2002 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 737 kg more than 2002 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 2002 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Explorer | A3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
