2008 Nissan X-Trail vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Nissan X-Trail is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 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 21 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan X-Trail should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan X-Trail weights approximately 495 kg more than 2003 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 2003 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 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan X-Trail will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan X-Trail | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | X-Trail | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2512 mm |
