1985 Nissan 300 ZX vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. (171 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Nissan 300 ZX weights approximately 59 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Because 1985 Nissan 300 ZX 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 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. (235 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Nissan 300 ZX.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Nissan 300 ZX | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | 300 ZX | GTI |
Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2960 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 171 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 235 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1401 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4213 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1501 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2578 mm |