2003 Nissan Xterra vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Xterra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Xterra would be higher. At 2,393 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan Xterra (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 405 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Xterra 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, 2003 Nissan Xterra (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Nissan Xterra | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xterra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1890 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2590 mm |
