1996 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 74 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 340 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
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 Volkswagen Passat (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (129 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Passat | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1670 mm |
