2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1997 Volkswagen Gol
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Gol. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Gol would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Gol. (49 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Gol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1055 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Gol. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Gol. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Gol. (72 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Gol.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1997 Volkswagen Gol | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Gol |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 72 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
