1973 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 35 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 183 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Volkswagen Passat | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Polo |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 82 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.6 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.5:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 1098 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
