1996 Nissan Maxima vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 114 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Nissan Maxima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Maxima. (178 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Nissan Maxima | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maxima | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2590 mm |
