2005 Nissan Maxima 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 Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Maxima (261 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 241 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.
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 Maxima (346 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. 2005 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Maxima | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maxima | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 346 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
