1985 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 24 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 1212 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.
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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volkswagen Passat | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2510 mm |
