2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2004 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 604 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Ford Explorer (306 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Ford Explorer | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Explorer | Golf |
Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 306 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1346 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4199 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2578 mm |