1997 Ford Ranger vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 2,507 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Ranger (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Ranger weights approximately 138 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ford Ranger 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 1997 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1997 Ford Ranger (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ranger | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ranger | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2507 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1257 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
