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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 127 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 815 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.
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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 288 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 | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 62 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 695 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
