2008 Nissan Frontier vs. 1986 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Nissan Frontier is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Passat 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) has 202 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 1465 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Nissan Frontier is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Frontier will offer significantly more control. 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 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Frontier | 1986 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Frontier | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2405 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2560 mm |
