1978 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 82 kg more than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 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, 1978 Chrysler Valiant (277 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1978 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Chrysler Valiant | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
Model | Valiant | Passat |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 277 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1502 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2712 mm |