2004 Nissan 350Z vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 8 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan 350Z (287 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (280 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 104 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, 2012 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 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (349 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Nissan 350Z | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | 350Z | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 287 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 372 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1459 kg | 1563 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 70 L |
