2005 Nissan 350Z vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Nissan 350Z 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 147 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 111 kg more than 2011 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, 2011 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 (354 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan 350Z | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | 350Z | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 287 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 354 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1469 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
