2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,007 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Explorer weights approximately 111 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (114 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4007 cc | 1469 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 45 L |
