1998 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Nissan Pathfinder
To start off, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder (310 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 901 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder (525 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 355 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 Nissan Pathfinder has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Nissan Pathfinder will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Nissan Pathfinder | |
Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
Model | Golf | Pathfinder |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1983 cc | 5600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 310 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 525 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1382 kg | 2283 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4884 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1849 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1847 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2850 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |