1983 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2001 Ford Econovan
To start off, 2001 Ford Econovan is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Ford Econovan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Econovan (96 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Econovan should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Econovan weights approximately 505 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Ford Econovan 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 2001 Ford Econovan. 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, 2001 Ford Econovan (155 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Econovan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volkswagen Passat | 2001 Ford Econovan | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | Passat | Econovan |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 96 HP |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1870 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2210 mm |
