The batteries are charged, check. Clubs loaded, check. Cigars in glove box, check. Radio set to favorite station…check. Cooler full of ice and adult beverages…check. Turn key, set level to forward, push pedal and go. This is a familiar ritual for anyone that uses a golf cart for transportation. And, yes, they are not just used for golf anymore. People use their carts daily to haul things, run errands, take grandkids to the pool and even for hunting in the woods. Electric and gas-powered golf carts have become standard equipment in our lifestyles.
So, which brand of cart should you purchase?
The most well-known cart brands are Club Car and E-Z-GO
Both the Club Car & EZGO golf cart models have been manufactured in the United States since the early 1950’s. Both are available in either gas or electric models. They both have lots of add-on options and upgrades to suit your needs and comforts, however when it comes to make a purchasing decision, which one should you choose? These are the two leading brands in the United States, so let’s break them both down to see which one may be a better option for you.
Starting with the basics, electric seems to be the most environmentally-acceptable selection. Electric golf carts produce no harmful emissions, and can easily be recharged right in your garage. In addition, they are quiet, promise instant acceleration and can run for 15 to 40 miles on a single charge depending on the size of the battery pack. Gas is more popular for use in hilly conditions because of added torque and instances where charging may not be possible. Recovery is immediate as soon as more gas is pumped into the tank, versus waiting for the batteries to be charged. You should select the solution that best meets your needs, as both power sources get the job done. Now, let’s take a look at their report cards.
Golf Cart Frame Comparison on Club Car and E-Z-GO
If you live in a coastal or very humid climate, Club Car carts will offer a distinct advantage. Their frame is constructed of aircraft-quality aluminum. For those of you in marine associated climates, this means the frame will not erode due to the humidity of climate. When a frame deteriorates, you might as well turn your cart into an expensive planter. Also, it is significantly lighter than a steel frame. E-Z-GO offers a very rugged steel frame, which will succumb to rust over time. If you decide to take decide on purchasing an EZGO cart, then ask if your dealer can spray the frame with a rust preventative. Now, from a safety oriented perspective, a steel frame offers the advantage of better protection. Say for instance you get into a cart collision. Would you rather be in a steel or aluminum framed golf cart? Common sense will tell us that a steel frame will do a better job at protecting the occupants inside a moving vehicle. That is part of the reason why cars avoid using aluminum frames – for your protection! So, in summation, if you are a safe driver and do not intent to get an accident and you also live on the coast or high humidity area, then the clear advantage as an aluminum frame with a Club Car cart. On the other hand, if you have a lead foot and prefer safety over a rust preventive frame, then an EZGO golf cart may suit you better.
Options, Accessories, and Parts
Because many owners use their carts for more than golf, the list of available options and upgrades has grown exponentially. For the most part, you can turn either cart brand into a customized masterpiece with loads of luxury and comfort oriented features to make your golf round or stroll around the neighborhood more enjoyable. Huge stereos systems, rooftop air conditioning, lift kits, custom golf car wheels and comfortable seating are all available at a price. Generally, pricing on parts & accessories for for both brands are fairly comparable. Whether you need EZGO golf cart parts or Club car part, both brands offer great availability through their large dealer networks. Additionally, you can find numerous accessories to add to your cart from both brands.
The Controller
Another important feature is the controller. This regulates the torque and speed of the cart and can be adjusted by a dealer’s service department. While the average speed is about 14-19 miles per hour, you can set up your cart to hit the 40 mile per hour mark (not legally of course, but some people have done it). This sounds great on the surface because you will get to your ball more rapidly. On a crowded weekend however, getting down the fairway faster only means a longer wait for the foursome in front of you to clear the fairway or green. Well, at least you can enjoy the music and beverages while you are stopped. The more amps the controller has the better the speed but high-amp controllers can take their toll on battery life, and getting six new eight-volt batteries can be costly exercise.
Other Variables to Take into Account
If you play a course with an especially tight layout, you might like the Club Car better. The steering is set up for a tighter radius with better control. The engine & motors run strong and it is not unusual to find an owner that has had a Club Car for 20 years.
Both manufacturers have pretty short-throw selectors to change from forward to reverse, which can be hard on your back. There is a fix though, provided by a longer throw handle that can be installed with a screwdriver and can be purchased off the internet for under $30.
One recommendation I would make in the pursuit of finding the the right golf cart is to ask your local service professional. We have a golf car dealer locator at the top of the page under resources. They’ll be the one fixing your unit if it has issues, and they will typically provide you with an unbiased answer. A seasoned professional should have no issue working on either Club Car or E-Z-GO though.
In Conclusion
So, the question begs to be asked again. Which should cart should you choose between Club Car & E-Z-GO. With all the details and facts above, we hope this helps weed down which one makes the most sense. At the end of the day though, our recommendation is that you make a list of the things you really want from your cart and then test drive both. Most courses have either Club Car or E-Z-GO fleets which will allow you test drive under actual playing conditions. After a test drive, you can gain a better understanding of what you really need. Take note of the acceleration and the performance going up and down hills, evaluate the comfort, and check the handling and balance. And, if you would like to window shop, then you can find both Club Car and EZGO carts for sale from reputable dealers by going to our marketplace. Once you are ready to make a decision, you can pay your local dealer a visit and see what features are included as standard and which add to the cost as options and upgrades. The process is a little like buying a car, but without the high pressure salespeople.
Also, take a look at what other owners are saying. You can find Club Car Reviews here and E-Z-GO Reviews here.
