2003 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1984 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 131 kg more than 1984 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 Volkswagen Golf (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen Golf | 1984 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 163 km/hour | 163 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1217 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
