1981 Pontiac Grand Prix vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1981 Pontiac Grand Prix is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,953 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 580 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1981 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 Pontiac Grand Prix. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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. 1981 Pontiac Grand Prix has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Pontiac Grand Prix | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Grand Prix | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4953 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 59 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2480 mm |
