2005 Land Rover Defender vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Land Rover Defender 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 2,498 cc, 2005 Land Rover Defender is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Land Rover Defender weights approximately 1118 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2005 Land Rover Defender 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 Land Rover Defender 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 Land Rover Defender (300 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Land Rover Defender will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Land Rover Defender | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Land Rover | Volkswagen |
| Model | Defender | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 1295 cc |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 9 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2058 kg | 940 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2560 mm |
