2009 Nissan 370Z vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Nissan 370Z is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,699 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan 370Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan 370Z (332 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (89 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan 370Z should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan 370Z weights approximately 594 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Nissan 370Z 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 370Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Passat, 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 370Z (366 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan 370Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Nissan 370Z | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | 370Z | Passat |
Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3699 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 332 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 366 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2560 mm |