2005 Nissan Altima vs. 1985 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Nissan Altima is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Altima (250 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Altima weights approximately 440 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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, 2005 Nissan Altima (338 Nm) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Altima | 1985 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Altima | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2560 mm |
