1997 Nissan Maxima vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 55 kg more than 2008 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, 1997 Nissan Maxima (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (127 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1997 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Nissan Maxima | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maxima | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1290 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 |
