2008 Nissan Altima vs. 1985 Nissan 300 ZX
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. (171 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Altima weights approximately 9 kg more than 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Nissan 300 ZX 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 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima, 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 Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. (235 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Nissan 300 ZX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Altima | 1985 Nissan 300 ZX | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Altima | 300 ZX |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1469 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2530 mm |
