1962 Cadillac 62 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Cadillac 62. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Cadillac 62 would be higher. At 6,390 cc (8 cylinders), 1962 Cadillac 62 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Cadillac 62 (197 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Cadillac 62 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Cadillac 62 weights approximately 1260 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Cadillac 62 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 1962 Cadillac 62. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1962 Cadillac 62 (582 Nm) has 487 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm). This means 1962 Cadillac 62 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1962 Cadillac 62 | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
Model | 62 | Passat |
Year Released | 1962 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6390 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 582 Nm | 95 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 98.4 mm | 72 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2140 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5650 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2480 mm |