2003 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 574 kg more than 1973 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 Passat (350 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen Passat | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1489 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 45 L |
