2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (157 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 887 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Explorer | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Explorer | Golf |
Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4605 cc | 1763 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 236 HP | 157 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 382 Nm | 225 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2082 kg | 1195 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2490 mm |