2003 Nissan 350Z vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Nissan 350Z is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (283 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 544 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Nissan 350Z 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 2003 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2003 Nissan 350Z (371 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (126 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Nissan 350Z | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | 350Z | Passat |
Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 283 HP | 85 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 371 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1464 kg | 920 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 45 L |