2003 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (270 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (210 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 758 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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 (370 Nm) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (252 Nm). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Volkswagen Passat | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | Passat | Golf |
Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1780 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | W | in-line |
Horse Power | 270 HP | 210 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 370 Nm | 252 Nm |
Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1548 kg | 790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2480 mm |