1972 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser vs. 1986 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1986 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser would be higher. At 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser (160 HP) has 101 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser weights approximately 1005 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser 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 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser (381 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser | 1986 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vista Cruiser | Passat |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5736 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2560 mm |
