2002 Nissan Maxima vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Nissan Maxima is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 665 kg more than 1981 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 Maxima (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Nissan Maxima | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Maxima | Golf |
Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 181 Nm | 79 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 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 | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 750 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |