1996 Audi A4 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Audi A4 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A4 (193 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A4 weights approximately 650 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A4 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, 1996 Audi A4 (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (126 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A4 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
