2004 Chrysler 300 vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Chrysler 300 is newer by 31 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 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler 300 (250 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 851 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.
Because 2004 Chrysler 300 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 2004 Chrysler 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 2004 Chrysler 300 (332 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler 300 | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 894 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2480 mm |
