2001 Nissan Alpha vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Nissan Alpha. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Nissan Alpha would be higher. At 4,490 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Nissan Alpha is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Nissan Alpha (301 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Nissan Alpha should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 65 kg more than 2001 Nissan Alpha.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2001 Nissan Alpha (359 Nm) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (282 Nm). This means 2001 Nissan Alpha will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Nissan Alpha | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Alpha | Passat |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4490 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 282 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1350 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2720 mm |
