1979 Buick Electra vs. 2001 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Buick Electra would be higher. At 4,942 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Passat (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1979 Buick Electra. (138 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1979 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Buick Electra weights approximately 60 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2001 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Buick Electra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Buick Electra. (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Buick Electra. 1979 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Buick Electra | 2001 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Electra | Passat |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 4003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5650 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2710 mm |
