2005 Nissan 350Z vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Nissan 350Z is newer by 7 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan 350Z (287 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (103 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 222 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2005 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan 350Z | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | 350Z | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 287 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
