2009 Nissan Micra vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Nissan Micra 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2009 Nissan Micra. (88 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2009 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 185 kg more than 2009 Nissan Micra. 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 Micra (185 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Micra 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 Micra has manual transmission. 2009 Nissan Micra 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 Micra | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Micra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1461 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 172 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 55 L |
