1974 Ford Fairlane vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 3,984 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Ford Fairlane (153 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (125 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1974 Ford Fairlane 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 1974 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1974 Ford Fairlane (325 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (169 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1974 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Ford Fairlane | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fairlane | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3984 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2710 mm |
