1983 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 650 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volkswagen Golf | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Passat |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
