1981 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 22 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 13 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Chevrolet Caprice should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 231 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. (333 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. 1981 Chevrolet Caprice has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2003 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 | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Caprice | Passat |
Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5002 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 333 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1489 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2710 mm |