2004 Nissan R 390 GT1 vs. 1990 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Nissan R 390 GT1 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan R 390 GT1 (543 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 382 more horse power than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. (161 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan R 390 GT1 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan R 390 GT1 weights approximately 21 kg more than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Nissan R 390 GT1 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 2004 Nissan R 390 GT1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2004 Nissan R 390 GT1 (637 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 412 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Nissan R 390 GT1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Nissan R 390 GT1 | 1990 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | R 390 GT1 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 543 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 637 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 1077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2480 mm |
