2008 Nissan Xterra 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 Xterra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan Xterra would be higher. At 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 955 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra 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 Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Xterra | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xterra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2405 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
