2004 Audi A8 vs. 2012 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A8 would be higher. At 3,935 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 127 kg more than 2004 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Ford Explorer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 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 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 305 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Explorer. (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 2012 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A8 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3935 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 2067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
