1988 Subaru XT vs. 1986 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1988 Subaru XT is newer by 2 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Subaru XT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Subaru XT (134 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Subaru XT should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Subaru XT weights approximately 220 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.
Because 1988 Subaru XT is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Subaru XT will offer significantly more control. 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, 1988 Subaru XT (196 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Subaru XT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Subaru XT | 1986 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | XT | Passat |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2560 mm |
