2009 GMC Yukon vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2009 GMC Yukon is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,328 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 GMC Yukon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 GMC Yukon (320 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 GMC Yukon should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 GMC Yukon weights approximately 1360 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 GMC Yukon is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 GMC Yukon 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 GMC Yukon (461 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 294 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (167 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 GMC Yukon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 GMC Yukon has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 GMC Yukon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 GMC Yukon 1980 Volkswagen Passat
Make GMC Volkswagen
Model Yukon Passat
Year Released 2009 1980
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5328 cc 1994 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 320 HP 115 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 461 Nm 167 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 3200 RPM
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 8 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 2435 kg 1075 kg
Vehicle Length 5140 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 2010 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1960 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2560 mm