1983 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 25 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP) has 271 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1232 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 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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 Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volkswagen Passat | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 330 HP |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 2172 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2890 mm |
