1983 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Volkswagen Passat (59 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1973 Volkswagen 1600 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 1973 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1973 Volkswagen 1600 (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1973 Volkswagen 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volkswagen Passat | 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2340 mm |
