2009 Nissan Maxima vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Nissan Maxima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 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 187 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 222 kg more than 2008 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 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (250 Nm @ 190 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Nissan Maxima | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Maxima | Golf |
Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 291 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 354 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 190 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.7 seconds | 12.1 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1617 kg | 1395 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4841 mm | 4240 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1859 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1468 mm | 1660 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2776 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |