2008 Nissan Micra vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan Micra would be higher. At 1,461 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Micra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Micra. (81 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 241 kg more than 2008 Nissan Micra. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Micra. (185 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Micra | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Micra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1461 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.9 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1049 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 4.5 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 55 L |
