1981 Ford Falcon 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 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,273 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1981 Ford Falcon. (109 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Falcon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 75 kg more than 1981 Ford Falcon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Falcon 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 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Falcon. (228 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Falcon.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Falcon | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Falcon | Passat |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3273 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 228 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1445 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2720 mm |