2008 Subaru Forester vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Subaru Forester is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Subaru Forester is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Subaru Forester weights approximately 545 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 Subaru Forester is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Forester 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, 2008 Subaru Forester (320 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Subaru Forester will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 Subaru Forester has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Subaru Forester will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Subaru Forester | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Forester | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2457 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2480 mm |
