2008 Nissan Micra vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Nissan Micra is newer by 11 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Micra. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Micra weights approximately 55 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Micra. (153 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Micra. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan Micra has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan Micra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Micra | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Micra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 55 L |
