2009 Ford Ranger vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Ford Ranger is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Ranger (143 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 318 kg more than 2009 Ford Ranger.
Because 2009 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 2009 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Ranger (209 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Ranger | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ranger | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
