1981 GMC Jimmy vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 GMC Jimmy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 GMC Jimmy would be higher. At 6,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 GMC Jimmy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 GMC Jimmy (130 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 GMC Jimmy should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Jimmy weights approximately 595 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 GMC Jimmy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 GMC Jimmy 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 GMC Jimmy (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 GMC Jimmy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. 1981 GMC Jimmy has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 GMC Jimmy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 GMC Jimmy | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jimmy | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6210 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 326 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2710 mm |
