2009 Nissan Versa vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Nissan Versa is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Versa (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Versa should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (165 Nm) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Nissan Versa. (127 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Nissan Versa.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Versa | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Versa | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2480 mm |
