1980 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (101 HP) has 42 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 518 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta | Passat |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 101 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 142 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1343 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 70 L |
