2003 Chrysler Pacifica vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Chrysler Pacifica 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 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler Pacifica is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler Pacifica (253 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (89 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler Pacifica should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler Pacifica weights approximately 1205 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 Chrysler Pacifica is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler Pacifica 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 Chrysler Pacifica (339 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler Pacifica will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. 2003 Chrysler Pacifica has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chrysler Pacifica will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler Pacifica | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Pacifica | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2165 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2560 mm |
