2004 Audi A4 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A4 (223 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 590 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Audi A4 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Audi A4 1980 Volkswagen Passat
Make Audi Volkswagen
Model A4 Passat
Year Released 2004 1980
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2976 cc 1587 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 223 HP 53 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 100 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 23.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Drive Type 4WD Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1610 kg 1020 kg
Vehicle Length 4550 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2560 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 66 L 60 L