2009 Toyota Highlander vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (266 HP) has 217 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Toyota Highlander (249 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota Highlander | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Highlander | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 266 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 45 L |
