1978 Opel Rekord vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (128 HP) has 28 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 248 kg more than 1978 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Opel Rekord. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Rekord. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Rekord | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rekord | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1978 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 128 HP |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
