1979 Buick Regal vs. 2009 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Buick Regal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Buick Regal would be higher. At 3,214 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (248 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1979 Buick Regal. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1979 Buick Regal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 230 kg more than 1979 Buick Regal. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Buick Regal. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Buick Regal. (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Buick Regal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Buick Regal | 2009 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Regal | Passat |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3214 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 248 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2720 mm |
