1972 Chevrolet Chevelle vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle would be higher. At 5,011 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle weights approximately 45 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle 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 Chevrolet Chevelle. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. (312 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Chevelle | Passat |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5011 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 1532 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 70 L |
