1979 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (123 HP) has 74 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 440 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volkswagen Passat | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Passat |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 123 HP |
| Torque | 82 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.6 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
