1981 Porsche 944 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 26 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 2,479 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Porsche 944 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1981 Porsche 944. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Porsche 944. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 44 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, 2007 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. Let's talk about torque, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Porsche 944. (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Porsche 944.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Porsche 944 | 2007 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 944 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2479 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1389 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
