1971 Chrysler Charger vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chrysler Charger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chrysler Charger would be higher. At 5,211 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Chrysler Charger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1971 Chrysler Charger. (227 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1971 Chrysler Charger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 123 kg more than 1971 Chrysler Charger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Chrysler Charger 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 1971 Chrysler Charger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1971 Chrysler Charger (461 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1971 Chrysler Charger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Chrysler Charger | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Charger | Passat |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5211 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1563 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2712 mm |
