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 (480 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 313 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (167 HP @ 6200 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 203 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 358 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan GT-R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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 | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 480 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 583 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1239 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 55 L |
