2003 Chevrolet Silverado vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado is newer by 22 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 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado (193 HP) has 134 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Silverado weights approximately 835 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.
Because 2003 Chevrolet Silverado is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 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, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado (354 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Silverado | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Silverado | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 354 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2560 mm |
