2003 Chevrolet SS vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet SS 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 6,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet SS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet SS (430 HP) has 316 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (114 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet SS should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet SS weights approximately 585 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.
Because 2003 Chevrolet SS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Chevrolet SS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 SS (583 Nm) has 417 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (166 Nm). This means 2003 Chevrolet SS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet SS | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | SS | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6000 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 430 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 583 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2560 mm |
