1998 Maserati Ghibli vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1998 Maserati Ghibli is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Maserati Ghibli is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Maserati Ghibli (302 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Maserati Ghibli should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Maserati Ghibli weights approximately 485 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Maserati Ghibli 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 1998 Maserati Ghibli. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1998 Maserati Ghibli (334 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Maserati Ghibli will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Maserati Ghibli | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Maserati | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ghibli | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 334 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2480 mm |
