1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 420 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (285 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Volkswagen Golf | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | Golf | Passat |
Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 285 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 72 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2480 mm |