1988 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2013 Nissan Z
To start off, 2013 Nissan Z is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Nissan Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Nissan Z (327 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (157 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Nissan Z should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Nissan Z weights approximately 378 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2013 Nissan Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2013 Nissan Z (366 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2013 Nissan Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volkswagen Golf | 2013 Nissan Z | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
| Model | Golf | Z |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1763 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 327 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 11:01:00 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1573 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1845 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1326 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
