1981 Porsche 944 vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 28 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1981 Porsche 944. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1981 Porsche 944. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 962 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 2009 Volkswagen T5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Porsche 944. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Porsche 944. (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Porsche 944.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Porsche 944 | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 944 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2479 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3010 mm |
