2004 Nissan Xterra vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Nissan Xterra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (270 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2004 Nissan Xterra. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2004 Nissan Xterra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 36 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Passat.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Nissan Xterra. (209 Nm). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Nissan Xterra. 2003 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2004 Nissan Xterra has manual transmission. 2004 Nissan Xterra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Nissan Xterra | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xterra | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1584 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1890 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 55 L |
