1989 Renault 4 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 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Renault 4 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 246 more horse power than 1989 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 661 kg more than 1989 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Renault 4. 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 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 4. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1989 Renault 4 has manual transmission. 1989 Renault 4 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 Renault 4 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 956 cc | 3597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 62 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 695 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
