1978 Volkswagen Passat 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 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (47 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 530 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. 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 (335 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volkswagen Passat | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1457 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 62 L |
