1981 Nissan Patrol vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Patrol. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Patrol would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Patrol is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Patrol. (94 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Patrol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Patrol weights approximately 527 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1981 Nissan Patrol is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Patrol will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Patrol. (215 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Patrol.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Patrol | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Patrol | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2075 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2980 mm | 2470 mm |
