2006 Nissan 350Z vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,491 cc, 2006 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan 350Z (300 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 290 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2006 Nissan 350Z (353 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2006 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2006 Nissan 350Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Nissan 350Z | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | 350Z | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1781 cc |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 62 L |
