1978 Fiat Strada vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat Strada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat Strada would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Strada. (60 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Strada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 732 kg more than 1978 Fiat Strada. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (251 Nm) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Strada. (91 Nm). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Strada. 1978 Fiat Strada has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Fiat Strada will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat Strada | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Strada | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.6 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1552 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2720 mm |
