2001 Nissan Xterra vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Nissan Xterra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Nissan Xterra would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2001 Nissan Xterra. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2001 Nissan Xterra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 32 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen Golf.

Because 2001 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Nissan Xterra will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Nissan Xterra. (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Nissan Xterra.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Nissan Xterra 2002 Volkswagen Golf
Make Nissan Volkswagen
Model Xterra Golf
Year Released 2001 2002
Body Type SUV Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2391 cc 3196 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 141 HP 238 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 6250 RPM
Torque 209 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 84 mm
Engine Stroke Size 96 mm 96 mm
Drive Type 4WD Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1580 kg 1548 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 4180 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1890 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2470 mm