Golf Cart Vs Utv – Differences & Features 2023

UTVs and golf carts are both small, lightweight vehicles primarily used for utility purposes.

Both of these types of vehicles have similar capabilities and limitations.

Depending on your area’s circumstances and legal restrictions, either one may be more suitable than the other for a particular task.

No matter if you want to buy a golf cart for your use or as an employee,

Knowing what distinguishes these two types of vehicles will help you make the appropriate choice based on your needs.

What Is A Golf Cart?

A golf cart is a wheeled vehicle transporting one or two people over a golf course.

They are meant to provide mobility for people with limited mobility, such as the elderly or people with disabilities.

They are also commonly used on private estates or as shuttles at resorts.

There are two main types with a roof and those without a roof.

Roofless carts are commonly used on golf courses when the weather permits, while roofed carts are most widely used in more inclement weather.

Golf carts are typically powered by gasoline engines and are often equipped with seat belts for safety.

What Is A Utv?

A UTV is a small, off-road vehicle similar to a golf cart but larger and more powerful.

UTVs are designed for many of the same types of uses as golf carts, such as shuttling people around a golf course, transporting people on remote properties, or providing transportation at resorts.

They are often used in areas that are too rough for golf carts due to their larger wheels, higher ground clearance, and wider wheelbase. Like golf carts, UTVs are often equipped with seat belts for safety.

While the types of vehicles are similar, UTVs are larger, heavier, and more powerful than golf carts.

UTVs are often more suitable for use in inclement weather and on rougher terrain than golf carts.

UTVs are also typically equipped with larger engines than golf carts, which increases their towing and hauling capabilities, making them more suitable for certain jobs.

Differences Between Golf Carts And Utvs

Golf carts and UTVs are similar in that they are both small, off-road vehicles designed for utility purposes.

However, they differ in many important ways, including size, weight, engine power, legal use, cost, and application.

Golf carts are typically smaller than UTVs, weighing between 900 and 1,200 pounds and measuring around 6 feet long.

UTVs are larger, weighing between 1,300 and 5,000 pounds and measuring between 10 and 14 feet long. This size difference means UTVs are often more suitable for inclement weather and rougher terrain than golf carts.

UTVs are also typically equipped with larger engines than golf carts, which increases their towing and hauling capabilities and makes them a better option for certain jobs.

Golf carts are primarily designed for on-road use and are not street-legal.

UTVs, on the other hand, are manufactured with off-road use in mind and are typically street-legal.

Golf Cart Vs UTV Features And Capabilities

Golf carts and UTVs can carry small loads, such as a few people, gear, or groceries.

However, UTVs are often more suitable for hauling heavy loads due to their larger frame, higher ground clearance, and wider wheelbase.

If you plan to move or tow heavy loads with your vehicles, such as equipment, supplies, or tools, a UTV is a better option than a golf cart.

Golf carts are primarily designed for on-road use and are not street-legal. UTVs, on the other hand, are manufactured with off-road use in mind and are typically street-legal. If you plan to drive your vehicle on public roads,

it’s important to ensure it is street-legal. You can check to see if your car is street legal by visiting your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles website or by calling the DMV.

The type of vehicle you choose will impact what kind of license or permit you need. Golf carts are typically not required to have a special state permit or license.

UTVs, on the other hand, usually require a special permit called a Title 49 special permit. This permit is necessary to be used on public lands and highways.

Golf carts are typically slower and quieter than UTVs. This makes golf carts a better option for use in neighborhoods with many nearby residences.

UTVs, on the other hand, are designed for rougher terrain and are often equipped with aftermarket parts that make them louder and faster.

Golf carts are typically limited to 25 mph, while UTVs can go much faster. The exact speed a particular UTV is capable of can vary greatly, depending on the type of vehicle and the modifications made to it.

For example, a UTV manufactured for racing and modified for speed may be capable of going much faster than a UTV designed primarily for off-road use.

Golf carts are typically powered by gasoline or electricity. UTVs, on the other hand, is powered by gas and diesel fuel.

Consider purchasing a gasoline-powered vehicle because it is more common and less expensive, depending on your job requirements.

Diesel fuel is significantly more expensive than gasoline and may not be available in your area.

Golf carts are typically smaller and lighter than UTVs. This makes them less durable than UTVs and easier to transport, store, and get in and out of tight areas.

UTVs, on the other hand, are built with larger wheels, higher ground clearance, and wider wheelbases, which make them better equipped for use in rough terrain and inclement weather.

Golf carts typically have limited cargo space, but some models can be equipped with a small, box-like cargo bed.

This cargo bed can haul groceries, tools, or yard supplies.

UTVs have much more cargo space, making them better suited for hauling larger, heavier items, such as equipment, supplies, or tools.

How To Choose: Deciding Between A Golf Cart And An Utv

Before you decide which type of vehicle is best for you, it’s important to consider your unique needs.

The following information may help you determine which type of vehicle is best for you.

Are you primarily using your vehicle on the road or off-road? A golf cart may be better if you use your truck mainly on the road. If you are using your vehicle off-road principally, a UTV may be a better option.

How much do you weigh? A golf cart may be a better option if you are in good health and weigh less than 250 pounds. If you are over 250 pounds, a UTV may be better suited for your needs.

How much do you plan to haul or tow? If you plan to move or tow heavy loads often, a UTV may be a better option.

Are you primarily going to be driving in city or country areas? A golf cart may be a better option if driving in high-traffic areas.

If you are driving in rural areas, a UTV may be a better option.

Final Thoughts: Should I Buy A Golf Cart Or Utv?

Budget, intended use, and personal preferences play a significant role in deciding whether to purchase a golf cart or UTV.

If budget is a primary concern, a golf cart may be the more economical option. Golf carts are typically less expensive than UTVs and can be used for even further savings.

Of course, a UTV may be the better choice if money is no object. A golf cart is a good fit if you use your vehicle mainly for leisure activities like cruising around your neighborhood or taking a leisurely ride on a golf course.

On the other hand, if you need a vehicle capable of handling difficult terrain or if you intend to use it for work, a UTV might be a better choice.

Ultimately, deciding whether to buy a golf cart or UTV depends on personal preferences. Some people prefer the style and comfort of a golf cart, while others prefer the utility and off-road capability of a UTV.

It would help if you chose the option that fits your needs and wants, as there is no right or wrong answer.