2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 3 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 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (207 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 213 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 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 2009 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 4.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
