1981 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2009 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 28 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 3,798 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Routan (194 HP) has 135 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 307 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, 2009 Volkswagen Routan (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volkswagen Passat | 2009 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Routan |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 3798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 194 HP |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 3080 mm |
