1978 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Chevrolet Caprice (129 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chevrolet Caprice should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1978 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. 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, 1978 Chevrolet Caprice (333 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1978 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 1978 Chevrolet Caprice has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Chevrolet Caprice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Chevrolet Caprice | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Caprice | Passat |
Year Released | 1978 | 1996 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5002 cc | 1593 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 333 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2710 mm |