1994 Ford Probe vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1994 Ford Probe is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Ford Probe (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Ford Probe weights approximately 375 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 1994 Ford Probe (212 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (115 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1994 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Ford Probe | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Probe | Passat |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1370 mm |
