1997 Ford Falcon vs. 1983 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Ford Falcon is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Falcon (301 HP) has 242 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Falcon should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Falcon weights approximately 734 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ford Falcon is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1997 Ford Falcon (515 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 415 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Falcon | 1983 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Falcon | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5766 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 515 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1674 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2560 mm |
