1994 Nissan Maxima vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1994 Nissan Maxima. (168 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1994 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 26 kg more than 1994 Nissan Maxima. 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, 1994 Nissan Maxima (253 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1994 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Nissan Maxima | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maxima | Golf |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2960 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 253 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2578 mm |
