2001 Acura RL vs. 1985 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2001 Acura RL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (89 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Acura RL weights approximately 635 kg more than 1985 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, 2001 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (146 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2001 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Acura RL | 1985 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Acura | Volkswagen |
| Model | RL | Passat |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3472 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2560 mm |
