1972 Alfa Romeo GT vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Alfa Romeo GT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Alfa Romeo GT would be higher. At 1,570 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Alfa Romeo GT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Alfa Romeo GT (131 HP) has 72 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Alfa Romeo GT should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Alfa Romeo GT weights approximately 10 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Alfa Romeo GT 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 1972 Alfa Romeo GT. 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, 1972 Alfa Romeo GT (156 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 Alfa Romeo GT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Alfa Romeo GT | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | GT | Passat |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1570 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2560 mm |
