1977 Ford Fiesta vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 803 kg more than 1977 Ford Fiesta. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (94 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Fiesta. 2012 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1977 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1977 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Fiesta | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | Passat |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1563 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2712 mm |
