1984 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2012 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2012 Subaru Outback 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Subaru Outback (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Subaru Outback weights approximately 573 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 Subaru Outback is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Outback 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, 2012 Subaru Outback (335 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2012 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. 2012 Subaru Outback 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 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Volkswagen Passat | 2012 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Subaru |
| Model | Passat | Outback |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1086 kg | 1659 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
