1989 Honda Accord vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Honda Accord would be higher. At 3,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1989 Honda Accord. (133 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1989 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Honda Accord weights approximately 29 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.

Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Honda Accord. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (359 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Honda Accord. (179 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Honda Accord. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1989 Honda Accord has manual transmission. 1989 Honda Accord will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Honda Accord 2008 Volkswagen Passat
Make Honda Volkswagen
Model Accord Passat
Year Released 1989 2008
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1997 cc 3597 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 133 HP 280 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 179 Nm 359 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 2750 RPM
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1260 kg 1231 kg
Vehicle Length 4690 mm 4790 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2720 mm