1986 Honda Civic 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 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1986 Honda Civic. (125 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1986 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 660 kg more than 1986 Honda Civic. 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 Passat (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Honda Civic. (142 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Honda Civic | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Civic | Passat |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3760 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2712 mm |
