2002 GMC Sierra vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2002 GMC Sierra is newer by 23 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 5,967 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 GMC Sierra (321 HP) has 272 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 GMC Sierra weights approximately 1325 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.
Because 2002 GMC Sierra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 GMC Sierra will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 GMC Sierra (371 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. 2002 GMC Sierra has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 GMC Sierra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 GMC Sierra | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sierra | Passat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5967 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 371 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2270 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5790 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3650 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 45 L |
