1980 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2009 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 29 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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (104 HP) has 45 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 542 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.
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, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Passat | 2009 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Passat |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 79.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2720 mm |
