2001 Ford Econovan vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Econovan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Econovan would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Ford Econovan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2001 Ford Econovan. (96 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Econovan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Econovan weights approximately 161 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2001 Ford Econovan 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 2001 Ford Econovan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Econovan. (155 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Econovan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Econovan | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Econovan | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2520 mm |
