1988 Nissan 300 ZX vs. 1986 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1988 Nissan 300 ZX is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Nissan 300 ZX (171 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (136 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Nissan 300 ZX should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Nissan 300 ZX weights approximately 300 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Nissan 300 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1988 Nissan 300 ZX (234 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Nissan 300 ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Nissan 300 ZX | 1986 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | 300 ZX | Passat |
Year Released | 1988 | 1986 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2960 cc | 2226 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 171 HP | 136 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 234 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2630 mm |