1981 Porsche 944 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1981 Porsche 944. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1981 Porsche 944. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 725 kg more than 1981 Porsche 944. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Porsche 944 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 Porsche 944. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton, 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, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Porsche 944. (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Porsche 944.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Porsche 944 | 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 944 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2479 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2890 mm |
