1985 Nissan Prairie vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Nissan Prairie. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Nissan Prairie would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1985 Nissan Prairie. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1985 Nissan Prairie. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 1332 kg more than 1985 Nissan Prairie. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Nissan Prairie. (121 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Nissan Prairie.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Nissan Prairie | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prairie | Golf |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Engine Size | 1487 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
