2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2004 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 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 442 kg more than 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (329 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Explorer. (306 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2013 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1508 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4212 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2578 mm |
