1979 Nissan 260 ZX vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Nissan 260 ZX would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Nissan 260 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Nissan 260 ZX (124 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Nissan 260 ZX should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Nissan 260 ZX weights approximately 55 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Nissan 260 ZX is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1979 Nissan 260 ZX (189 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1979 Nissan 260 ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Nissan 260 ZX | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | 260 ZX | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2512 mm |
