1984 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2012 GMC Savana

To start off, 2012 GMC Savana is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 6,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 GMC Savana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 GMC Savana (260 HP @ 3100 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Savana should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Savana weights approximately 1316 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2012 GMC Savana 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 2012 GMC Savana. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 2012 GMC Savana (711 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 610 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2012 GMC Savana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. 2012 GMC Savana has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1984 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 GMC Savana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1984 Volkswagen Passat 2012 GMC Savana
Make Volkswagen GMC
Model Passat Savana
Year Released 1984 2012
Body Type Station Wagon Van
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1588 cc 6600 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 53 HP 260 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 3100 RPM
Torque 101 Nm 711 Nm
Torque RPM 2300 RPM 1600 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automatic
Vehicle Weight 1045 kg 2361 kg
Vehicle Length 4550 mm 5692 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 2012 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 2070 mm
Wheelbase Size 2560 mm 3429 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 117 L