2008 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 561 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. 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 (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Volkswagen Jetta | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | Jetta | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3490 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 85 L |
