2005 Nissan Altima vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Nissan Altima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Altima (260 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Altima weights approximately 382 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Altima (334 Nm) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Altima | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Altima | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 334 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2512 mm |
