1980 Subaru DL vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Subaru DL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Subaru DL would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (104 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1980 Subaru DL. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1980 Subaru DL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 685 kg more than 1980 Subaru DL. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Subaru DL. (100 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Subaru DL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Subaru DL | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | DL | Passat |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2712 mm |
