2001 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2013 Nissan Z
To start off, 2013 Nissan Z is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Nissan Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Nissan Z (327 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Nissan Z should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Nissan Z weights approximately 238 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Nissan Z 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 2013 Nissan Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2013 Nissan Z (366 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2013 Nissan Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Volkswagen Golf | 2013 Nissan Z | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
| Model | Golf | Z |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2324 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 327 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1493 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1845 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1315 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2550 mm |
