1998 Nissan Laurel vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Nissan Laurel (153 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 106 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 Nissan Laurel 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 1998 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1998 Nissan Laurel (190 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Nissan Laurel 2005 Volkswagen Golf
Make Nissan Volkswagen
Model Laurel Golf
Year Released 1998 2005
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1998 cc 1983 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 153 HP 113 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 2400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1390 kg 1284 kg
Vehicle Length 4770 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2520 mm