1972 Volvo P 1800 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 Volvo P 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo P 1800 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volvo P 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1972 Volvo P 1800. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1972 Volvo P 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 400 kg more than 1972 Volvo P 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Volvo P 1800 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 Volvo P 1800. 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 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volvo P 1800. (153 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volvo P 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Volvo P 1800 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | P 1800 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2720 mm |
