1985 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 27 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 267 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (165 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volkswagen Passat | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | GTI |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2578 mm |
