1994 Nissan Maxima vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1994 Nissan Maxima. (168 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1994 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 102 kg more than 1994 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1994 Nissan Maxima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Nissan Maxima. (253 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Nissan Maxima | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maxima | Passat |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2960 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 253 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
