1973 Volkswagen 1600 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (5 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volkswagen Passat (114 HP) has 61 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 97 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Volkswagen 1600 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 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1980 Volkswagen Passat (166 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1980 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1600 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 978 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2560 mm |
