1991 Nissan 300 ZX vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Nissan 300 ZX (279 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Nissan 300 ZX should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Nissan 300 ZX weights approximately 135 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1991 Nissan 300 ZX 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 1991 Nissan 300 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1991 Nissan 300 ZX (376 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1991 Nissan 300 ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

1991 Nissan 300 ZX 2012 Volkswagen Golf
Make Nissan Volkswagen
Model 300 ZX Golf
Year Released 1991 2012
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2958 cc 1600 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 279 HP 104 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 376 Nm 250 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 1500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1585 kg 1450 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 4534 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1781 mm
Vehicle Height 1260 mm 1504 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2578 mm