2003 Fiat Idea vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Fiat Idea is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Fiat Idea is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Fiat Idea (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (47 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Idea should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Fiat Idea weights approximately 360 kg more than 1978 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 Fiat Idea (255 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Idea | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Idea | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.5 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 45 L |
