1986 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 134 kg more than 1986 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (156 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Volkswagen Passat | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2860 mm |
