1997 Subaru SVX vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 1997 Subaru SVX is newer by 17 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 3,318 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Subaru SVX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Subaru SVX (217 HP) has 158 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Subaru SVX should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Subaru SVX weights approximately 740 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1997 Subaru SVX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Subaru SVX 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, 1997 Subaru SVX (301 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Subaru SVX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. 1997 Subaru SVX has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Subaru SVX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Subaru SVX 1980 Volkswagen Passat
Make Subaru Volkswagen
Model SVX Passat
Year Released 1997 1980
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3318 cc 1272 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Horse Power 217 HP 59 HP
Torque 301 Nm 95 Nm
Torque RPM 4600 RPM 3400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 97 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 72 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1620 kg 880 kg
Vehicle Length 4630 mm 4300 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2480 mm