2008 Nissan Xterra vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Nissan Xterra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 110 kg more than 2008 Nissan Xterra.
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, 2008 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Nissan Xterra has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Xterra | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xterra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3952 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
