1981 Ford Fiesta 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 Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 720 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (126 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 70 L |
