1986 Ford Falcon vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1986 Ford Falcon. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Falcon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 193 kg more than 1986 Ford Falcon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Falcon. (241 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Falcon.
Compare all specifications:
1986 Ford Falcon | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Falcon | Passat |
Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3273 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 280 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 241 Nm | 349 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1563 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2712 mm |