1999 Nissan Xterra vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Nissan Xterra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Nissan Xterra would be higher. At 2,393 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1999 Nissan Xterra. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1999 Nissan Xterra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 54 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1999 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Nissan Xterra 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Nissan Xterra. (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Nissan Xterra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Nissan Xterra | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xterra | Passat |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1584 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4771 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1890 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2712 mm |
