2009 Nissan Maxima vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Nissan Maxima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Maxima (291 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (238 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 69 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Maxima (354 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Maxima | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maxima | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 291 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 354 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1617 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4841 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1859 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1468 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2776 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.1 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 62 L |
