1973 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1986 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1986 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 13 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 1,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Volkswagen Golf (53 HP) has 4 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 85 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1986 Volkswagen Golf (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Volkswagen Passat | 1986 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 82 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
