1984 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Civic (138 HP) has 79 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda Civic weights approximately 378 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.
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, 2012 Honda Civic (174 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm). This means 2012 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Volkswagen Passat | 2012 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Honda |
| Model | Passat | Civic |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 87.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 942 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1785 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
