2009 Nissan 350Z vs. 1988 Nissan Micra
To start off, 2009 Nissan 350Z is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Nissan Micra would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 257 more horse power than 1988 Nissan Micra. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1988 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 1045 kg more than 1988 Nissan Micra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Nissan Micra, 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, 2009 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Nissan Micra. (73 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan 350Z | 1988 Nissan Micra | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | 350Z | Micra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 306 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 73 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2310 mm |
