2003 Nissan Maxima vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Nissan Maxima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 8 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Nissan Maxima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (270 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Nissan Maxima | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maxima | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2470 mm |
