1971 Holden Statesman vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Holden Statesman (272 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 10 kg more than 1971 Holden Statesman.
Because 1971 Holden Statesman 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 Holden Statesman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Holden Statesman (490 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1971 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1971 Holden Statesman has manual transmission. 1971 Holden Statesman will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Holden Statesman | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Statesman | Passat |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2710 mm |
