1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2013 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2013 Ford Explorer is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford Explorer (286 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford Explorer weights approximately 986 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Ford Explorer (346 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2013 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2013 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2013 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | Golf | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8: 1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 2146 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2291 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1803 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
