1989 Nissan Laurel vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 166 kg more than 1989 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1989 Nissan Laurel 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 1989 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (142 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Laurel.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Nissan Laurel 2004 Volkswagen Golf
Make Nissan Volkswagen
Model Laurel Golf
Year Released 1989 2004
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1809 cc 1895 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 90 HP 197 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 142 Nm 280 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 1800 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1170 kg 1336 kg
Vehicle Length 4700 mm 4220 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2510 mm


 

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