2006 Nissan 350Z vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Nissan 350Z is newer by 9 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 3,491 cc, 2006 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan 350Z (300 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 500 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 2006 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 2006 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2006 Nissan 350Z (353 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Nissan 350Z | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | 350Z | Golf |
Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1595 cc |
Horse Power | 300 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 353 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1210 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |