1973 Chrysler Charger vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Charger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Charger would be higher. At 5,899 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Chrysler Charger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Chrysler Charger (252 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Chrysler Charger should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Chrysler Charger weights approximately 30 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Chrysler Charger 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 Chrysler Charger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 Chrysler Charger (486 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1973 Chrysler Charger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chrysler Charger | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Charger | Passat |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5899 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 486 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
