1981 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2013 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 32 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Impala (296 HP) has 237 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 689 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, 2013 Chevrolet Impala (355 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volkswagen Passat | 2013 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | Passat | Impala |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 296 HP |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1629 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1851 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2807 mm |
