1972 Plymouth Valiant vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Plymouth Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Plymouth Valiant would be higher. At 3,678 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Plymouth Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (178 HP) has 69 more horse power than 1972 Plymouth Valiant. (109 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1972 Plymouth Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 273 kg more than 1972 Plymouth Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Plymouth Valiant. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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 (371 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Plymouth Valiant. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Plymouth Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Plymouth Valiant | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Plymouth | Volkswagen |
| Model | Valiant | Passat |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3678 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 178 HP |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 78.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 104.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
