2004 Renault Clio vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Renault Clio is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Clio (251 HP) has 202 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Clio weights approximately 471 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Renault Clio 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 Renault Clio. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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 Renault Clio (300 Nm @ 4650 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Renault Clio | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Clio | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2946 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4650 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.4:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
