2009 Nissan Frontier vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier is newer by 4 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), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 144 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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 226 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Nissan Frontier 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. 2009 Nissan Frontier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Frontier | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Frontier | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3952 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
