2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2013 Nissan Pathfinder
To start off, 2013 Nissan Pathfinder is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Nissan Pathfinder (256 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 884 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Nissan Pathfinder is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Nissan Pathfinder 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, 2013 Nissan Pathfinder (325 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2013 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 2013 Nissan Pathfinder | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
| Model | Golf | Pathfinder |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 2049 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5009 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1961 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 74 L |
