What Is the Difference Between a Gator & a Polaris ATV?

Manufacturer

• The Gator line of all-terrain vehicles is produced by John Deere, which also produces a variety of construction and farm equipment. Polaris is more known for recreational and leisure products such as all-terrain vehicles, snowmobiles and motorcycles. Because of John Deere's reputation as a company that builds work equipment rather than leisure equipment, Gator vehicles are often associated with work. John Deere also refers to its Gator products as "utility" vehicles, while Polaris uses the term "all-terrain vehicle."
  
  

Gator Styles

• Gator vehicles are categorized into three different styles -- crossover, traditional and military. The Crossover line is most similar to the Polaris line of ATVs. These vehicles typically have four tires, a roll cage, two seats and are designed for applications such as hunting or driving on trails. The Traditional line is different than any Polaris product. Traditional Gators are typically six-wheeled and carry a dump box behind the two seats. They're ideal for applications such as golf course and stadium maintenance. The Military line includes vehicles in several styles specifically designed for use by the military.
  
  

Polaris Styles

• Polaris produces three styles of all-terrain vehicle -- the Sportsman, Ranger and Ranger RZR. The Sportsman line is a typical four-wheeled ATV that carries a driver or a driver and a passenger. These products are common among hunters and fishers. Polaris Rangers have a sporty appearance and typically contain two seats. They are equipped with a roll bar and are ideal for using if you have several acres of land. The Ranger RZR is a sportier version of the Ranger. It can seat up to four people and commonly used for exploring trails.
  
  

Features

• Depending on which style of John Deere Gator or Polaris ATV you choose, you can accessorize it with a number of manufacturer's features. As such, any one Gator or Polaris ATV can be vastly different or similar to another. Common accessories include enhanced lighting, roof racks, additional seats, bumpers, dump boxes, cutting blades and storage options.