1987 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 Nissan Pathfinder
To start off, 2011 Nissan Pathfinder is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Pathfinder (266 HP) has 196 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (70 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 1030 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Nissan Pathfinder 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 2011 Nissan Pathfinder. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2011 Nissan Pathfinder (390 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (118 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 Nissan Pathfinder | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
| Model | Passat | Pathfinder |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 266 HP |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 390 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4884 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1834 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2850 mm |
