2008 Nissan Sentra vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Nissan Sentra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan Sentra would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Sentra (140 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 1011 kg more than 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Sentra. (199 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Sentra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Sentra | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sentra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2405 kg | 1394 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.7 L/100km | 4.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
