1968 Ford Fairlane vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 6,550 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Ford Fairlane (213 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 665 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Ford Fairlane 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 1968 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Ford Fairlane | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fairlane | Passat |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6550 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 213 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2480 mm |
