2012 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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, 2011 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
