1998 Nissan Silvia vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Nissan Silvia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Nissan Silvia would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Nissan Silvia (250 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Nissan Silvia should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1998 Nissan Silvia 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 1998 Nissan Silvia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1998 Nissan Silvia (271 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (240 Nm). This means 1998 Nissan Silvia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. 2012 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1998 Nissan Silvia has manual transmission. 1998 Nissan Silvia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Nissan Silvia | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Silvia | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2712 mm |
