1966 Ford Galaxie vs. 1983 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Ford Galaxie. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Ford Galaxie would be higher. At 6,387 cc (8 cylinders), 1966 Ford Galaxie is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Ford Galaxie (236 HP) has 177 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Ford Galaxie should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Ford Galaxie weights approximately 852 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Ford Galaxie 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 1966 Ford Galaxie. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1966 Ford Galaxie (406 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1966 Ford Galaxie will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford Galaxie | 1983 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Galaxie | Passat |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6387 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 406 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102.9 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1792 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5340 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2560 mm |
