2008 Nissan X-Trail vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Nissan X-Trail 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 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Nissan X-Trail is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan X-Trail (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan X-Trail should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan X-Trail weights approximately 425 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Nissan X-Trail is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan X-Trail will offer significantly more control. 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 X-Trail (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan X-Trail will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan X-Trail has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan X-Trail 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 X-Trail | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | X-Trail | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.5 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
