2009 Nissan Pathfinder vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Nissan Pathfinder. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Nissan Pathfinder would be higher. At 3,953 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Pathfinder (262 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 17 kg more than 2009 Nissan Pathfinder.
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, 2012 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 (288 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Nissan Pathfinder has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Pathfinder | Golf |
Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3953 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 262 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 288 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1346 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4199 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |