2001 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Explorer (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 152 kg more than 2001 Ford Explorer.
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, 2001 Ford Explorer (305 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (250 Nm). This means 2001 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 2001 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Explorer | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5000 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 55 L |
