2006 Nissan Maxima vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Nissan Maxima is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Maxima (265 HP) has 216 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 744 kg more than 1978 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, 2006 Nissan Maxima (346 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Nissan Maxima | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maxima | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 265 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 346 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1574 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 45 L |
