1996 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1981 Nissan Stanza
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 15 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 1,809 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Stanza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (125 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Stanza.
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, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (169 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (142 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Stanza. 1981 Nissan Stanza has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Nissan Stanza will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Passat | 1981 Nissan Stanza | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
| Model | Passat | Stanza |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 1809 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
