1981 Dodge Mirada vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Dodge Mirada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Dodge Mirada would be higher. At 5,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Dodge Mirada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (247 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1981 Dodge Mirada. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Dodge Mirada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 15 kg more than 1981 Dodge Mirada. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Dodge Mirada. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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 Dodge Mirada (343 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (330 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1981 Dodge Mirada will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Dodge Mirada | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mirada | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 343 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2720 mm |
