2009 Nissan Xterra vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Nissan Xterra 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Xterra (262 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 998 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.
Because 2009 Nissan Xterra 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 Xterra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Xterra | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xterra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2316 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
