1973 Opel Rekord vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1973 Opel Rekord. (66 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 500 kg more than 1973 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Opel Rekord 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 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (335 Nm) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Opel Rekord | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rekord | Passat |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
