2004 Panoz Esperante vs. 1983 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Panoz Esperante is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Panoz Esperante (420 HP) has 361 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Panoz Esperante weights approximately 595 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Panoz Esperante 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 Panoz Esperante. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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 Panoz Esperante (529 Nm) has 429 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm). This means 2004 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Panoz Esperante | 1983 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Panoz | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esperante | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4589 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 529 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2560 mm |
