1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Tata Nano
To start off, 2011 Tata Nano 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 1,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (59 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2011 Tata Nano. (35 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2011 Tata Nano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 560 kg more than 2011 Tata Nano. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Tata Nano 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 2011 Tata Nano. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Tata Nano. (48 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Tata Nano.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Tata Nano | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Tata |
| Model | Golf | Nano |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 624 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 35 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 48 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3099 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1495 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1652 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2230 mm |
