1981 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Chevrolet Caprice (148 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (125 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Chevrolet Caprice should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1981 Chevrolet Caprice (333 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (169 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1981 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 1981 Chevrolet Caprice has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Chevrolet Caprice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Chevrolet Caprice | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Caprice | Passat |
Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5002 cc | 1779 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 333 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2710 mm |