2009 Nissan Pathfinder vs. 1977 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Nissan Pathfinder is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Pathfinder (266 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 637 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Nissan Pathfinder is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Nissan Pathfinder. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Pathfinder (391 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 308 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Nissan Pathfinder has automatic transmission and 1977 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1977 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Nissan Pathfinder will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Pathfinder | 1977 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Pathfinder | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 266 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 391 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 45 L |
