2002 Nissan Altima vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Nissan Altima is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Altima (173 HP) has 114 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 491 kg more than 1979 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, 2002 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Nissan Altima | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Altima | Golf |
Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2488 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 59 HP |
Torque | 244 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 805 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 3820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 45 L |