2009 Chevrolet Tahoe vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe (321 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 262 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe weights approximately 185 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe 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 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe (461 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 367 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (94 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tahoe | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5300 cc | 1271 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1960 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2480 mm |
