2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 267 kg more than 1980 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, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (126 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cavalier | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 45 L |
