2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1988 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 74 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 196 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (121 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 1988 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 42 L |
