2009 Nissan GT-R vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Nissan GT-R 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 3,799 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan GT-R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan GT-R (481 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 367 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan GT-R should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan GT-R weights approximately 430 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Nissan GT-R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan GT-R 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, 2009 Nissan GT-R (583 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 413 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan GT-R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2009 Nissan GT-R has manual transmission. 2009 Nissan GT-R will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan GT-R | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | GT-R | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3799 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 481 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 583 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 55 L |
