1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Nissan Versa
To start off, 2011 Nissan Versa is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Versa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Versa (122 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Versa should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Versa weights approximately 91 kg more than 1997 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, 2011 Nissan Versa (172 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Versa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Nissan Versa | |
Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
Model | Golf | Versa |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 73 HP | 122 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1251 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4295 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1694 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1534 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2601 mm |