1997 Nissan Patrol vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Patrol. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Patrol would be higher. At 2,826 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Nissan Patrol is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Patrol. (114 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Patrol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Nissan Patrol weights approximately 698 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
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 Patrol (225 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1997 Nissan Patrol will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Nissan Patrol | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Patrol | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2826 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1988 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1480 mm |
