2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (266 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 561 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
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 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 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. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Explorer | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Explorer | Golf |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4605 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 236 HP | 266 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 382 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2082 kg | 1521 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4213 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1501 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2578 mm |