2002 Nissan Maxima vs. 1985 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2002 Nissan Maxima is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Maxima (252 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (89 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 500 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Nissan Maxima (335 Nm) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (146 Nm). This means 2002 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Nissan Maxima | 1985 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maxima | Passat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2560 mm |
