1986 Subaru XT vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Subaru XT would be higher. At 3,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 196 kg more than 1986 Subaru XT. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (359 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru XT. (196 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru XT. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1986 Subaru XT has manual transmission. 1986 Subaru XT will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Subaru XT | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | XT | Passat |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 3597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
