2001 Dodge Ram vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2001 Dodge Ram is newer by 20 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 5,900 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Dodge Ram (235 HP) has 176 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Dodge Ram weights approximately 874 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, 2001 Dodge Ram (447 Nm) has 347 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm). This means 2001 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Dodge Ram | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | Passat |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5900 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1814 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5700 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3530 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 60 L |
