1976 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler Valiant. (91 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 606 kg more than 1976 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Chrysler Valiant 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 1976 Chrysler Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler Valiant. (123 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Chrysler Valiant | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
Model | Valiant | Passat |
Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1439 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 91 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 123 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1436 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2712 mm |