1986 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 18 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 391 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Volkswagen Passat | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2860 mm |
