1966 Toyota Corolla vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volkswagen Passat (59 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1966 Toyota Corolla. (51 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1966 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 230 kg more than 1966 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Toyota Corolla 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 Toyota Corolla. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1981 Volkswagen Passat (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Toyota Corolla. (85 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1981 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Toyota Corolla | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Corolla | Passat |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1068 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 710 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2560 mm |
