1980 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1971 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volkswagen Passat (85 HP) has 32 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1971 Volkswagen 1600 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 1971 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1980 Volkswagen Passat (126 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1980 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Passat | 1971 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 40 L |
