2008 Ford Explorer vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 246 kg more than 2008 Ford Explorer.
Because 2008 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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 (345 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (225 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 345 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
