1996 Nissan Maxima vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 185 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1996 Nissan Maxima (178 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (156 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Nissan Maxima | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Maxima | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 178 Nm | 156 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |