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Nissan Z vs Volkswagen Golf R - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (420 HP vs 315 HP), trunk space and price (43,000 $ vs 45,700 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Nissan Z or Volkswagen Golf R?

Nissan Z vs Volkswagen Golf R: Key differences

Nissan Z

  • barely cheaper
  • markedly more power

Volkswagen Golf R

  • moderately more efficient
  • very slightly lighter

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Golf R

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Nissan Z is barely cheaper – starting at 43,000 $ , while the Volkswagen Golf R costs 45,700 $ . That’s a price difference of around 2,695 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Volkswagen Golf R performs moderately better – achieving 22 mpg, compared to 19 mpg for the Nissan Z. That’s a difference of about 3 mpg.

Golf R

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Nissan Z offers markedly more power – delivering 420 HP compared to 315 HP. That’s roughly 105 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Nissan Z delivers noticeably more torque with 384 lb-ft compared to 295 lb-ft. That’s about 89 lb-ft more.

Golf R

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Seats: Volkswagen Golf R offers more seats – 5 vs 2.

In terms of curb weight, Volkswagen Golf R is very slightly lighter – 3,397 lbs compared to 3,486 lbs. The difference is around 89 lbs.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Nissan Z sits just ahead overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from $43,000
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Nissan Z

  • Engine Type : Gasoline
  • Transmission : Manual, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Rear Wheel
  • Power HP : 400 - 420 HP
Nissan Z
Volkswagen Golf R

Costs and Consumption

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Engine and Performance

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Dimensions and Body

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General

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Nissan Z

The Nissan Z continues to capture the spirit of classic Japanese sports cars with its iconic styling and exhilarating performance. This latest iteration combines a sleek, retro-inspired design with modern technology, ensuring it appeals to both longtime enthusiasts and new fans alike. Inside, drivers are greeted by a driver-focused cabin that blends comfort with a sporty edge, providing an engaging driving experience on both winding roads and urban streets.

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Volkswagen Golf R

The Golf R is the hot hatch that blends everyday civility with a mischievous streak, gripping hard and slingshotting out of corners while still cruising to the grocery store like a champ. Inside it’s practical and polished, and with the right drive mode it flips from calm commuter to cheeky back-road assassin without breaking a sweat.

details
Nissan Z
Volkswagen Golf R

Costs and Consumption

Price
43,000 - 65,800 $
Price
45,700 - 46,500 $
FuelEconomy City
17 - 19 mpg
FuelEconomy City
20 - 22 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
24 - 28 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
28 - 31 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
16.4 gal
Fuel tank capacity
14.5 gal

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Coupe
Body Type
4MOTION Hatchback
Seats
2
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
3,486 - 3,704 lbs
Curb weight
3,397 - 3,474 lbs
Trunk Volume
-
Trunk Volume
-
Length
172.4 - 173.2 in.
Length
168.9 in.
Width
72.6 - 73.6 in.
Width
70.4 in.
Height
51 in.
Height
57 in.

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Manual, Automatic
Transmission
Manual, Automatic
Drive Type
Rear Wheel
Drive Type
All Wheel
Power HP
400 - 420 HP
Power HP
315 HP
Torque
350 - 384 lb-ft
Torque
280 - 295 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
3 L
Engine Displacement
2 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General

Model Year
2,024
Model Year
2,024
Brand
Nissan
Brand
Volkswagen
DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.