2009 Toyota Highlander vs. 1986 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 658 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota Highlander | 1986 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Highlander | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3456 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 336 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1684 kg | 1026 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2560 mm |
