1985 Skoda L vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1985 Skoda L is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volkswagen Passat (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1985 Skoda L. (57 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1985 Skoda L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 55 kg more than 1985 Skoda L. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Skoda L 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 1985 Skoda L. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1981 Volkswagen Passat (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Skoda L. (90 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1981 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Skoda L.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Skoda L | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Skoda | Volkswagen |
| Model | L | Passat |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1219 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 885 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2560 mm |
