2005 GMC Sierra vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 GMC Sierra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 GMC Sierra (321 HP) has 262 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 GMC Sierra weights approximately 1330 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 GMC Sierra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 GMC Sierra 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, 2005 GMC Sierra (370 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 GMC Sierra | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sierra | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5965 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2270 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5790 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3650 mm | 2560 mm |
