1987 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (84 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (70 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 189 kg more than 1987 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (118 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Volkswagen Passat | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Golf |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 84 HP |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1229 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2578 mm |
