1981 Nissan Patrol vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Patrol. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Patrol would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Patrol is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (104 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Patrol. (94 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Patrol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1981 Nissan Patrol. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Nissan Patrol is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Volkswagen T5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Patrol will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Patrol. (215 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Patrol.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Patrol | 2011 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Patrol | T5 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2075 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2980 mm | 3010 mm |
