1988 Nissan Vanette vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Nissan Vanette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Nissan Vanette would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1988 Nissan Vanette. (86 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1988 Nissan Vanette.
Because 1988 Nissan Vanette 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 1988 Nissan Vanette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Nissan Vanette. (148 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Nissan Vanette. 2009 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1988 Nissan Vanette has manual transmission. 1988 Nissan Vanette will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Nissan Vanette | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vanette | Golf |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1952 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2080 mm | 2580 mm |
