2008 Nissan Frontier vs. 1980 Nissan Patrol
To start off, 2008 Nissan Frontier is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Nissan Patrol. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Nissan Patrol would be higher. At 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1980 Nissan Patrol. (94 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1980 Nissan Patrol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 330 kg more than 1980 Nissan Patrol. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2008 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Nissan Patrol. (215 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Nissan Patrol. 2008 Nissan Frontier has automatic transmission and 1980 Nissan Patrol has manual transmission. 1980 Nissan Patrol will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Nissan Frontier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Frontier | 1980 Nissan Patrol | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Frontier | Patrol |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 3244 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2405 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2980 mm |
