1996 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 307 kg more than 1978 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, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Cavalier | Passat |
Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2480 mm |