1980 Chrysler Avenger vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1980 Chrysler Avenger is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volkswagen Passat (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1980 Chrysler Avenger. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1980 Chrysler Avenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 40 kg more than 1980 Chrysler Avenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Chrysler Avenger is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1980 Chrysler Avenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1974 Volkswagen Passat (121 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chrysler Avenger. (93 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1974 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chrysler Avenger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chrysler Avenger | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Avenger | Passat |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2480 mm |
