1994 Nissan 300 ZX vs. 1981 Nissan Stanza
To start off, 1994 Nissan 300 ZX is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Stanza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Stanza would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Nissan 300 ZX (279 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Nissan 300 ZX should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Stanza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Nissan 300 ZX weights approximately 455 kg more than 1981 Nissan Stanza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 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 1994 Nissan 300 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Stanza, 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, 1994 Nissan 300 ZX (376 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (151 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1994 Nissan 300 ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Stanza.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Nissan 300 ZX | 1981 Nissan Stanza | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | 300 ZX | Stanza |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2960 cc | 1952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 279 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 376 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2480 mm |
