2003 Nissan 350Z vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Nissan 350Z is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (265 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (103 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 260 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Nissan 350Z 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 2003 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2003 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Nissan 350Z | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | 350Z | Golf |
Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 265 HP | 103 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 363 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 86.9 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |