1985 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 750 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (225 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (145 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volkswagen Polo | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo | Passat |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 720 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2710 mm |
