1988 Nissan Prairie vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Nissan Prairie. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Nissan Prairie would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1988 Nissan Prairie. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1988 Nissan Prairie. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 589 kg more than 1988 Nissan Prairie. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Nissan Prairie. (121 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Nissan Prairie.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Nissan Prairie | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prairie | Passat |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Engine Size | 1487 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 978 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4775 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
