2004 Nissan 350Z vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,507 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan 350Z (287 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 107 kg more than 2004 Nissan 350Z.
Because 2004 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 2004 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2004 Nissan 350Z (372 Nm) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. (280 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Nissan 350Z | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | 350Z | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3507 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 287 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 372 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4775 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 70 L |
