A golf cart is definitely not an ATV, but is it possible for a golf cart to replace an ATV, or are they made for completely different purposes?
If it’s possible to exchange your old ATV with a golf cart, is it even a smart choice, or would you just throw money on the ground?
This is what we’ll be answering in this golf cart vs ATV comparison article, so stick around!
Golf Cart vs ATV: Purpose
Golf carts are designed for different purposes than ATVs. Understanding the purposes behind these two types of vehicles is essential for choosing between them.
Golf Cart
Golf carts may appear to be light machines designed to transport golfers from one hole to the next on well-kept golf greens, but this is far from the reality.
These vehicles have evolved significantly since their initial conception, and many people today use them to facilitate their entertainment and business activities. Golf carts are also becoming more popular on farms and ranches.
ATV
An ATV, or all-terrain vehicle, is a popular utility vehicle that can traverse a variety of terrain. In general, driving an ATV on the street is permitted. However, driving an ATV on the road may be prohibited in some states or regions.
This type of vehicle has remarkably strong wheels that can withstand any challenge. Modern ATVs are one-of-a-kind machines that have captivated the hearts of hunters, fishermen, and other outdoor enthusiasts.
Golf Cart vs ATV: Qualities
Before deciding on getting a golf cart instead of an ATV, or vice versa, you should be aware of the different qualities of both vehicles.
Golf Cart
- A golf cart has a smaller wheelbase and a sleeker profile than most vehicles, allowing it to fit into tighter spaces. Golf carts can normally carry and tow more than a four-wheeler.
- Golf carts aren’t permitted to surpass their maximum speed of 20 miles per hour.
- You must register the cart as a low street vehicle if you wish to take it off the course or around the neighborhood.
- Golf carts are available in both electric and gasoline-powered models.
- A golf cart’s average weight is approximately 900 pounds.
ATV
- ATVs, sometimes known as quads, are popular low-tire vehicles that can traverse a variety of terrain.
- ATVs have a top speed of 60-80 miles per hour. An ATV’s high speed allows adventure seekers to explore off-roading.
- ATVs will either feature a single seat for the driver or a double seat for another passenger to sit on while driving.
- A four-stroke engine is used by the majority of ATVs. Two-stroke engines are used in several youth ATVs, though.
- The average weight of an ATV ranges from 200 to 1200 pounds, depending on the engine size.
- The engine is typically used to power ATVs. ATVs are available ranging from 50cc to 1000cc.
Why Using a Golf Cart Is Better Than an ATV
In order to be able to tell which is the better choice for you, here are some things that golf cart owners have said they love about their cart:
- A golf cart will have greater passenger space than an ATV, which will have relatively limited space. An ATV can accommodate a maximum of two people, including the driver
- Golf carts are often smaller than ATVs, making them easy to maneuver.
- ATVs and golf carts both use four-stroke engines. For youth ATVs, however, a two-stroke engine may be used.
- Electric and gasoline-powered golf carts are both available.
- Electric golf carts are more environmentally beneficial since they release no carbon emissions, which reduces the planet’s carbon footprint.
- With just stock tires and wheels, a golf cart tackles the steep lake trail very well.
Why Using an ATV Is Better Than a Golf Cart
To be completely fair and honest while trying to help you make the better decision, we’ll also be talking about the points in which all-terrain vehicles excel over golf carts.
- A golf cart can only be used on the golf course, whereas an ATV can travel across a wide range of terrain
- Most golf carts can only go 20 miles per hour, while an ATV can go up to 80 miles per hour.
- It’s a fantastic vehicle to have around the house. It can even be used as a light tractor on occasion. It’s ideal for snow plowing and other jobs that require dragging the tractor out, as well as regions that are too rocky or hilly for a tractor to safely operate.
How to Choose Between a Golf Cart and an ATV
The qualities listed above don’t mean that you should buy one vehicle and not the other. Both are quite reliable. However, in order to tell which is more appropriate for you, you have to keep in mind the individual differences.
For instance, you should be aware of the reason why you’re going to purchase them. This will allow you to choose the one that fits your needs better.
You should also keep in mind the budget that you have for them. Can you get the perfect match for you with your budget, or would you rather settle for a cheaper alternative that still gets the job done correctly?
Such factors, along with the qualities of each vehicle discussed above, should help you pinpoint the right vehicle for you.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to comparing two useful vehicles such as the golf cart and the ATV, the most important factor is which of them would fit your needs more.
Check your needs and look at the different models of each vehicle. This would help you decide whether you’re team golf cart or team ATV.
No matter what your choice is going to be, golf carts and ATVs both have great qualities that you’ll certainly enjoy.