1973 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Volkswagen Passat (108 HP) has 49 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 85 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Volkswagen Passat (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1973 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Volkswagen Passat | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2410 mm |
