1996 Subaru Legacy vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 1996 Subaru Legacy is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Subaru Legacy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Subaru Legacy (115 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Subaru Legacy should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 410 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1996 Subaru Legacy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Subaru Legacy 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 Subaru Legacy (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Subaru Legacy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.

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