2006 Nissan Altima vs. 1988 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Nissan Altima is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Altima (260 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Altima weights approximately 254 kg more than 1988 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, 2006 Nissan Altima (339 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (150 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Nissan Altima | 1988 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Altima | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1469 kg | 1215 kg |
