2006 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (248 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Ford Explorer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2011 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. 2011 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | Golf | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 248 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
