2012 Nissan Maxima vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Nissan Maxima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Maxima (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 388 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2012 Nissan Maxima (353 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Nissan Maxima | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maxima | Golf |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | CVT | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1617 kg | 1229 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4841 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1859 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1468 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2776 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9 L/100km | 4.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
