1971 Volkswagen 1600 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 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (134 HP) has 81 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 515 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volkswagen 1600 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 Volkswagen 1600. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (335 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Volkswagen 1600 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1600 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 62 L |
