1988 Toyota 4Runner vs. 2009 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Toyota 4Runner. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Toyota 4Runner would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1988 Toyota 4Runner. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1988 Toyota 4Runner. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 517 kg more than 1988 Toyota 4Runner. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Toyota 4Runner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Toyota 4Runner 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, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Toyota 4Runner. (240 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Toyota 4Runner.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Toyota 4Runner | 2009 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4Runner | Passat |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2958 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2720 mm |
