1985 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2008 Ford Falcon

To start off, 2008 Ford Falcon is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Falcon (261 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (89 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Falcon should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Falcon weights approximately 664 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Ford Falcon 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 2008 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2008 Ford Falcon (391 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (146 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

1985 Volkswagen Passat 2008 Ford Falcon
Make Volkswagen Ford
Model Passat Falcon
Year Released 1985 2008
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1781 cc 3983 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 89 HP 261 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 146 Nm 391 Nm
Torque RPM 3300 RPM 3250 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1040 kg 1704 kg
Vehicle Length 4540 mm 4967 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1868 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1433 mm
Wheelbase Size 2560 mm 2838 mm