1973 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 33 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 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 410 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 1966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 82 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
