2006 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1978 Volvo 66
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 66.
Because 1978 Volvo 66 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 1978 Volvo 66. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 66. (94 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 66. 1978 Volvo 66 has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volvo 66 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen Passat | 1978 Volvo 66 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Passat | 66 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1550 mm |
