2009 Audi S3 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Audi S3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi S3 (252 HP) has 203 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi S3 weights approximately 510 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi S3 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, 2009 Audi S3 (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi S3 | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | S3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
