2006 Ford Freestyle vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Ford Freestyle is newer by 25 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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Freestyle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Freestyle (203 HP) has 144 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Freestyle should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Freestyle weights approximately 775 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Ford Freestyle (281 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Freestyle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Freestyle | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Freestyle | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2560 mm |
