1973 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Chevrolet Impala (110 HP) has 61 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 770 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Chevrolet Impala 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 1973 Chevrolet Impala. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1973 Chevrolet Impala (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Chevrolet Impala | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Impala | Passat |
Year Released | 1973 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4097 cc | 1471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 49 HP |
Torque | 251 Nm | 82 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 76.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 23.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 945 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5600 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2480 mm |