2003 Nissan 350Z vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (265 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 395 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo, 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 (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Nissan 350Z 2008 Volkswagen Polo
Make Nissan Volkswagen
Model 350Z Polo
Year Released 2003 2008
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3490 cc 1390 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 265 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 363 Nm 126 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 95.5 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81.4 mm 75.6 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.3:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 1095 kg
Vehicle Length 4310 mm 3900 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2470 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.8 L/100km 6.6 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 76 L 45 L