2009 Nissan Frontier vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (261 HP) has 208 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 499 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Nissan Frontier is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Nissan Frontier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Nissan Frontier has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Nissan Frontier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Frontier | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Frontier | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
