2004 Ford Explorer vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 619 kg more than 1998 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (315 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Explorer. (306 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Explorer. 1998 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Ford Explorer | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Explorer | Golf |
Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1982 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 | 306 Nm | 315 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1331 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |