2008 Nissan 350Z vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (238 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 162 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2008 Nissan 350Z (364 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan 350Z | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | 350Z | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 306 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 364 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 62 L |
