1981 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 272 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volkswagen Passat | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1212 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
