1973 Porsche 914 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1984 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Porsche 914. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Porsche 914 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Porsche 914 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Porsche 914 (85 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Porsche 914 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Porsche 914 weights approximately 26 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Porsche 914 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 Porsche 914. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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 Porsche 914 (140 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1973 Porsche 914 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Porsche 914 | 1984 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 914 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2560 mm |
