1979 Renault 4 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volkswagen Passat (59 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1979 Renault 4. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 245 kg more than 1979 Renault 4. 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, 1981 Volkswagen Passat (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1981 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Renault 4 | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 955 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 62 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 695 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2560 mm |
