1987 Nissan 300 ZX vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Nissan 300 ZX (171 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Nissan 300 ZX should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Nissan 300 ZX weights approximately 60 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1987 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 1987 Nissan 300 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Nissan 300 ZX. (234 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Nissan 300 ZX.

Compare all specifications:

1987 Nissan 300 ZX 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
Make Nissan Volkswagen
Model 300 ZX Jetta
Year Released 1987 2012
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2960 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 171 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 234 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 4250 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1460 kg 1400 kg
Vehicle Length 4550 mm 4644 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1778 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 1482 mm
Wheelbase Size 2530 mm 2651 mm


 

More Comparisons

Resources

Replacing Your Front Disc Brakes Made Simple: The Definitive DIY Guide
Replace the front disc brakes of your vehicle and save money on labour cost. Read this guide to learn how. [read more]
What to look for when buying a used/second hand car.
Diligence through every step of the buying process will help you find a reliable used car and avoid any unpleasant surprises. [read more]
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Perform an Oil Change on Your Car
One of the most effective ways of saving money on car maintenance is to change the oil yourself. [read more]