1998 Lancia Kappa vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1998 Lancia Kappa is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Lancia Kappa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lancia Kappa (201 HP) has 142 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lancia Kappa should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lancia Kappa weights approximately 575 kg more than 1981 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, 1998 Lancia Kappa (270 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Lancia Kappa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lancia Kappa | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lancia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kappa | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
