2005 Ford Ranger vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Ford Ranger is newer by 7 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2005 Ford Ranger. (86 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 78 kg more than 2005 Ford Ranger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Ford Ranger is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Ranger. (137 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Ranger | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ranger | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1758 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1290 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
