2008 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1972 Volvo 1800
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1972 Volvo 1800. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1972 Volvo 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 320 kg more than 1972 Volvo 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Volvo 1800 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 1972 Volvo 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volvo 1800. (176 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volvo 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Passat | 1972 Volvo 1800 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Passat | 1800 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |
