1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. (115 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 186 kg more than 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate 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 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. 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 (240 Nm) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. (163 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Graduate | Passat |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 70 L |
