2008 Nissan 350Z vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 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 (309 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 546 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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 (358 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan 350Z | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | 350Z | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 309 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 358 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.6 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.1 seconds | 12.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1716 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.7 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
