2005 Ford Explorer vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Ford Explorer is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Explorer weights approximately 8 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Ford Explorer (344 Nm) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Explorer | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
