2009 Nissan Frontier vs. 1987 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (261 HP) has 191 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (70 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 289 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 Frontier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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 Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (118 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Frontier | 1987 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Frontier | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3952 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 70 HP |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2560 mm |
