2004 Ford Ranger vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Ford Ranger is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Ranger (207 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Ranger weights approximately 288 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Ranger is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Ranger 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 Ford Ranger (323 Nm) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (94 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Ranger | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ranger | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1271 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1208 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2480 mm |
