2002 Nissan Altima vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (248 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Altima. (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 298 kg more than 2002 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Nissan Altima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Nissan Altima | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Altima | Golf |
Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2488 cc | 3189 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 248 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 244 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.9:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1594 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 60 L |