Should You Buy an Electric or a Gas-Powered Golf Cart?

Every golfer spends plenty of time selecting the right club before each shot, and you should take the same approach to buying a golf cart. Golf carts are available with both electric and gasoline engines, and you really can’t go wrong with either type of cart. But you owe it to yourself to make a head-to-head comparison so that you can make an informed decision. Here’s a look at both types of carts to get you started. If you have any questions, Arizona Ranch & Resort Cars in Prescott Valley, Arizona. We serve golf cart enthusiasts in Flagstaff and Surprise, Arizona. 

Two Types of Engines

Gas-powered golf carts use a traditional combustion engine. Most golf carts have four-cycle engines, but you can also find some models with two-cycle engines. They run off the same gasoline that you can purchase at any service station, and have the same service needs as any other gas-powered automobile or ATV. Electric carts are in more widespread usage than gas-powered carts and they operate using large rechargeable 38- or 48-volt battery cells. There are a lot more battery-powered carts in use than gas-powered carts, primarily because they are significantly less expensive.  

Gas Golf Cart Pros and Cons

If you’re a “tuner” or an aspiring shadetree mechanic, you will probably be happier with a gas-powered cart. They can run at higher speeds and have more horsepower. This makes them a more attractive option for riders who enjoy taking their carts off the course and onto roads. They’re not street legal, but a pretty common sight at campgrounds and tailgates. These carts include more options, which makes them more expensive. They also make more noise and need routine maintenance. Like all gas-powered engines, they produce carbon-monoxide emissions. 

Electric Golf Cart Pros and Cons

If you like to use a cart “right out of the box,” electric carts will be a very attractive option. You can find a great selection of carts at a lot of different price points, and they're making a lot of improvements in performance and top speed. They operate quietly and emission free, and you won’t have to worry about oil changes or other routine maintenance. One of their key limitations is that rechargeable batteries can become much more predictable as they get older, and if your battery dies you’ll have to push or tow the cart to the nearest power source. They also struggle to maintain their speed when traveling uphill. 

For more information and to see our current inventory of new and pre-owned golf carts for sale, visit Arizona Ranch & Resort Cars in Prescott Valley, Arizona. We serve golf cart enthusiasts in Flagstaff and Surprise, Arizona.