1978 Peugeot 304 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Peugeot 304 would be higher. At 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1978 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 325 kg more than 1978 Peugeot 304. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Peugeot 304. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Peugeot 304.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Peugeot 304 | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
| Model | 304 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.6 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |
