2002 Nissan Altima vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Altima (247 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 203 kg more than 2004 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 (338 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Nissan Altima | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Altima | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3505 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1212 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 55 L |
