2003 Panoz AIV vs. 1983 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Panoz AIV is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Panoz AIV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Panoz AIV (301 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Panoz AIV should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Panoz AIV weights approximately 240 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Panoz AIV 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 Panoz AIV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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 Panoz AIV (407 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Panoz AIV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Panoz AIV | 1983 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Panoz | Volkswagen |
| Model | AIV | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4599 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.2 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2560 mm |
