1980 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 311 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (195 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Passat | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Golf |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
