2009 Mazda Tribute vs. 1985 Nissan 300 ZX
To start off, 2009 Mazda Tribute is newer by 24 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 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 171 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 90 kg more than 1985 Nissan 300 ZX.
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, 2009 Mazda Tribute, 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, 1985 Nissan 300 ZX (235 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda Tribute. (232 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1985 Nissan 300 ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda Tribute.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda Tribute | 1985 Nissan 300 ZX | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | Tribute | 300 ZX |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2483 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2530 mm |
