2009 Pontiac Solstice vs. 1987 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,382 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac Solstice (171 HP) has 101 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (70 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Pontiac Solstice weights approximately 289 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Pontiac Solstice 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 Pontiac Solstice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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 Pontiac Solstice (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (118 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Pontiac Solstice | 1987 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Solstice | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2382 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 70 HP |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2560 mm |
