1974 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (47 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 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, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (210 Nm) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (85 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volkswagen Golf | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1091 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
