2009 Ford E-350 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2009 Ford E-350 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,408 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford E-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford E-350 (255 HP) has 196 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford E-350 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford E-350 weights approximately 28 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 Ford E-350 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 Ford E-350. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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 Ford E-350 (475 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 375 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford E-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Ford E-350 1984 Volkswagen Passat
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model E-350 Passat
Year Released 2009 1984
Body Type Van Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5408 cc 1297 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 255 HP 59 HP
Torque 475 Nm 100 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3500 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 12 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 970 kg 942 kg
Vehicle Length 5390 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 2120 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 3510 mm 2560 mm