1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,994 cc (5 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 1980 Volkswagen Passat (166 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 1980 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2560 mm |
