1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2001 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 4,003 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Passat (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 865 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ford Fiesta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2001 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 4003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 166 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 80 L |
