2008 Toyota Tacoma vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Toyota Tacoma is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,956 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Tacoma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Tacoma (236 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Tacoma should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 Toyota Tacoma 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 2008 Toyota Tacoma. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 2008 Toyota Tacoma (361 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Tacoma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Toyota Tacoma | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
Model | Tacoma | Passat |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3956 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 236 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 361 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5290 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3240 mm | 2480 mm |