2005 Nissan Hardbody vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Nissan Hardbody is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,389 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Hardbody is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Hardbody (155 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Hardbody should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Hardbody weights approximately 59 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Nissan Hardbody 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 Hardbody. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (315 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Nissan Hardbody. (209 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Nissan Hardbody.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Hardbody | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Hardbody | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2389 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.6 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1226 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 84 L | 55 L |
