2009 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2004 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1020 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Ford Explorer (306 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2004 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
