2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 599 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (311 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1351 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
