2008 Ford Explorer vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo
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 Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen Polo 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 61 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. (149 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1017 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Polo, 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 229 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. (115 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen Polo 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 Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 1423 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 1060 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 45 L |
