1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Nissan NP300
To start off, 2011 Nissan NP300 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2011 Nissan NP300. (131 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2011 Nissan NP300.
Because 2011 Nissan NP300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Nissan NP300 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, 2011 Nissan NP300 (304 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (235 Nm). This means 2011 Nissan NP300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Nissan NP300 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
| Model | Golf | NP300 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2801 cc | 2486 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2960 mm |
