2008 Nissan 350Z vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 140 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2008 Nissan 350Z (364 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Nissan 350Z | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | 350Z | Jetta |
Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 306 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 364 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4644 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1482 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2651 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 3.6 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 5.2 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 4.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |