2008 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2008 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Explorer.
Because 2008 Ford Explorer 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 2008 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Ford Explorer | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Explorer | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4013 cc | 3189 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 247 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 344 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |