2009 Nissan Frontier vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,953 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (257 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1997 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 (281 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (127 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Frontier | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Frontier | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3953 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 257 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 15.7 L/100km | 5.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
