1983 Dodge Mirada vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1983 Dodge Mirada is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1983 Dodge Mirada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Dodge Mirada (145 HP) has 96 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Dodge Mirada should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Dodge Mirada weights approximately 755 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Dodge Mirada 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 1983 Dodge Mirada. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1983 Dodge Mirada (343 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Dodge Mirada will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Dodge Mirada | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Mirada | Passat |
Year Released | 1983 | 1979 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5210 cc | 1471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 145 HP | 49 HP |
Torque | 343 Nm | 82 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 99.3 mm | 76.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 80 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 945 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2480 mm |