The History of the VW Passat.

[Volksfolks]

History of the Passat

VW's Passat is the largest car in their lineup. While the European Passats have always kept the Passat name, the US market has had a few name changes since the first Passat. In the US, the Passat was first introduced as the Dasher. Then came the Quantum/Santana. And for the last three generations VW's largest car has been named Passat. Launched in 1973, the Dasher was the replacement for the 1600 series. The top of the line Passat TS featured an 85HP water-cooled 1.5L four-cylinder motor with an overhead camshaft driving the front wheels. This Dasher was good for 0-100KM/h in 12 seconds with a top speed of 105 MPH. Getting 23.5 MPG it was pretty economical too, perfect for the oil crisis. The Dasher got a facelift in fall 1977 along with a few improvements including all motors were equipped with hardened valve seats so they could run unleaded fuel.

http://www.visi.com/~bhjelt/Images/74dasher.jpg

Dasher: 1975 - 1980

http://www.visi.com/~bhjelt/Images/quantum.jpg

Quantum: 1980 - 1988
The Quantum/Santana replaced the Dasher in 1980 it was longer, wider, and had more interior space than its predecessor. There were four engines to choose from, a 1.6L diesel, 1.3L and 1.6L four cylinder motors, and a top of the line five cylinder motor good for 115 HP. The US got the Quantum Syncro Wagon starting in 1985. By 1986, the QSW had a base price of $15,645 including standard Cruise Control, and could be optioned out with power windows, locks, mirrors, sunroof, and an AM/FM cassette stereo for $17,280. While this sounds steep, the only other car of its time that could compete was the twice as costly Audi 5000 Quattro Wagon.



For 1988, VW presented the world with the third generation Passat, although it wasn't readily available in the US until 1990. This model is easily identified by its lack of a front grill. The 1990 B3 Passat came standard with the 2.0L 16V motor. Rated at 134HP and 133lbs/ft torque it was capable of 0-60MPH in 9.8 seconds and could go on to a top speed of 125MPH. One cool feature of the B3 Passat was the adjustable rear seats. While the B3 Passat compared favorably to it's Japanese and American competitors, it never was able to keep up in sales volume. There are a lot of loyal B3 owners though, something that the Americans and Japanese can't say. For 1991(1992 US), the Passat was the first VW to receive the all-new VR6 motor. With 172 HP on tap, it made the 5 speed Passat go 0-60MPH in 7.9 seconds.

http://www.visi.com/~bhjelt/Images/B3passat.jpg

B3 Passat: 1990 -1994

http://www.visi.com/~bhjelt/Images/B4Vr6Side.gif

B4 Passat: 1995 - 1997
In 1995, VW freshened the Passats' design with the new B4 series. Standard fare was the 8-valve 2 liter four, but the GLX model still got the 2.8L VR6. With almost 3100 lbs. of car to pull, the 8 valve motor needed 9.8 seconds to hit 60MPH. The GLX took only 8 seconds with the VR6. New to the B4 were driver and passenger airbags up front in place of motorized seat belts. Also the B4 now sported a grilled nose. Standard equipment included power windows, locks, heated power mirrors, factory alarm, AM/FM Cassette stereo with 8 speakers, and CFC free air conditioning.

[Volksfolks]

B5 Passats were first introduced in 1998 and were initially available only in the base GLS model with the 1.8t motor. Soon thereafter a GLX model with the Audi 30V V6 came along and the GLS V6. The B5 Passat is based off of the same platform as the Audi A4 and Audi A6. It even shares the 1.8t I4 and 30V V6 with the Audi models. The newest Passat has a five valve per cylinder dual over-head cam (V6 with variable valve timing) longitudinally mounted engine that drives the front wheels. It has a multilink front suspension that is designed to effectively eliminate torque steer, while the rear gets a torsion beam setup. Standard equipment includes driver and front passenger front and side airbags, ABS, electronic differential lock, power windows, locks, heated power mirrors, factory alarm, MFA, AM/FM Cassette stereo with 8 speakers, and CFC free air conditioning. A power glass sunroof, heated seats, and a five-speed tiptronic auto transmission are options. For 1999 the Passat got the new blue and red dashboard lighting. The hot setup for B5's? 1.8 turbo 5speed with a performance chip: 190-200HP, 230-255lb/ft of torque.

http://www.visi.com/~bhjelt/Images/brian_h1.jpg
http://www.visi.com/~bhjelt/Images/brian_h2.jpg
http://www.visi.com/~bhjelt/Images/bhjelt.jpg

B5 Passat: 1998 - 2005

[GoLfMan]

interesting write up thanks for that :D

[fuzion]

sweet, got something to read shortly lol

[rayray086]

Nice :) B6 to go!

[evorobin]

W8's are $15K in the UK I want to kill somone :mad:

[brackie]

Thanks, Andy. I'll make this thread a "sticky".

[h100vw]

" For 1988, VW presented the world with the third generation Passat, although it wasn't readily available in the US until 1990. This model is easily identified by its lack of a front grill. The 1990 B3 Passat came standard with the 2.0L 16V motor. Rated at 134HP and 133lbs/ft torque it was capable of 0-60MPH in 9.8 seconds and could go on to a top speed of 125MPH. One cool feature of the B3 Passat was the adjustable rear seats. While the B3 Passat compared favorably to it's Japanese and American competitors, it never was able to keep up in sales volume. There are a lot of loyal B3 owners though, something that the Americans and Japanese can't say. For 1991(1992 US), the Passat was the first VW to receive the all-new VR6 motor. With 172 HP on tap, it made the 5 speed Passat go 0-60MPH in 7.9 seconds. "


For historical accuracy, one should mention the 112bhp 1800 8V, 139bhp KR 16v, 2 litre 8V and the G60 in both 2wd and syncro variations.

When I get a moment I'll scan in some VW brochures that I have from that era.

Gavin

There's more, the KR and 9A were dropped for the B4 and were replaced with the ABF. Which would have been an ideal motor to have in a wagon. I only ever saw one and even with the leather in it, I couldn't buy into all the other faults it had.

[Volksfolks]

Hi Gavin, your input is much appriciated, there are many variations of this car, anyone care to find some info on the latest version B6!

thanks Andy

[phaeton]

G60 was never fitted to the Passat ???????

[vinderliker]

That's great info. Do you know anything about the Australian built Passats. The Little Beastie is build number 324, which make it a very early model, it does'nt even have a brake master cylinder. They were built at a factory in Clayton in Melbourne, which in turn when VW left Australia, Nissan produced cars there, and now HSV use the space to weave their special magic. I have also heard the the Passat won the 1974 Wheels car of the year, is this true



History of the Passat

VW's Passat is the largest car in their lineup. While the European Passats have always kept the Passat name, the US market has had a few name changes since the first Passat. In the US, the Passat was first introduced as the Dasher. Then came the Quantum/Santana. And for the last three generations VW's largest car has been named Passat. Launched in 1973, the Dasher was the replacement for the 1600 series. The top of the line Passat TS featured an 85HP water-cooled 1.5L four-cylinder motor with an overhead camshaft driving the front wheels. This Dasher was good for 0-100KM/h in 12 seconds with a top speed of 105 MPH. Getting 23.5 MPG it was pretty economical too, perfect for the oil crisis. The Dasher got a facelift in fall 1977 along with a few improvements including all motors were equipped with hardened valve seats so they could run unleaded fuel.


Dasher: 1975 - 1980



Quantum: 1980 - 1988
The Quantum/Santana replaced the Dasher in 1980 it was longer, wider, and had more interior space than its predecessor. There were four engines to choose from, a 1.6L diesel, 1.3L and 1.6L four cylinder motors, and a top of the line five cylinder motor good for 115 HP. The US got the Quantum Syncro Wagon starting in 1985. By 1986, the QSW had a base price of $15,645 including standard Cruise Control, and could be optioned out with power windows, locks, mirrors, sunroof, and an AM/FM cassette stereo for $17,280. While this sounds steep, the only other car of its time that could compete was the twice as costly Audi 5000 Quattro Wagon.



For 1988, VW presented the world with the third generation Passat, although it wasn't readily available in the US until 1990. This model is easily identified by its lack of a front grill. The 1990 B3 Passat came standard with the 2.0L 16V motor. Rated at 134HP and 133lbs/ft torque it was capable of 0-60MPH in 9.8 seconds and could go on to a top speed of 125MPH. One cool feature of the B3 Passat was the adjustable rear seats. While the B3 Passat compared favorably to it's Japanese and American competitors, it never was able to keep up in sales volume. There are a lot of loyal B3 owners though, something that the Americans and Japanese can't say. For 1991(1992 US), the Passat was the first VW to receive the all-new VR6 motor. With 172 HP on tap, it made the 5 speed Passat go 0-60MPH in 7.9 seconds.


B3 Passat: 1990 -1994



B4 Passat: 1995 - 1997
In 1995, VW freshened the Passats' design with the new B4 series. Standard fare was the 8-valve 2 liter four, but the GLX model still got the 2.8L VR6. With almost 3100 lbs. of car to pull, the 8 valve motor needed 9.8 seconds to hit 60MPH. The GLX took only 8 seconds with the VR6. New to the B4 were driver and passenger airbags up front in place of motorized seat belts. Also the B4 now sported a grilled nose. Standard equipment included power windows, locks, heated power mirrors, factory alarm, AM/FM Cassette stereo with 8 speakers, and CFC free air conditioning.

[Bora Sport]

Does anybody have the power and torque figures for the 30V 2.8 V6 engine?

Thanks in advance.

[h100vw]

G60 was never fitted to the Passat ???????

Dude, I must have been dreaming, driving round in my syncro for 2 years then. :)

http://www.imagestation.com/4216216/4122404188

Can't find an under bonnet shot but here's the back axle.

http://www.imagestation.com/4216216/4122404378

Gavin

[phaeton]

Looks like I've learn't something today just found this http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G60

Thanks ;)

EDIT found this webpage with Orignal Press Pictures of syncro G60 http://www.passat.blauu.de/modellgeschichte/typb3g60.html

[h100vw]

I have got the German dealer brochures here but couldn't get near the scanner.

Gavin

[Volksfolks]

Does anybody have the power and torque figures for the 30V 2.8 V6 engine?

Thanks in advance.


The 2.8 L V6 30V, pumps out 193 PS (142 kW). Torque: 206 ft-lbs.

we have a 1999 and the motor is just the best, heaps of power!

http://www.vwwatercooled.com.au/forums/images/imported/2006/01/passat7-1.jpg

Andy

[rayray086]

Looking tough Volksfolks!

[phaeton]

I have got the German dealer brochures here but couldn't get near the scanner.

Gavin

When you get near one I'd be interested in seeing them please :D

[Lukev85]

That's great info. Do you know anything about the Australian built Passats. The Little Beastie is build number 324, which make it a very early model, it does'nt even have a brake master cylinder. They were built at a factory in Clayton in Melbourne, which in turn when VW left Australia, Nissan produced cars there, and now HSV use the space to weave their special magic. I have also heard the the Passat won the 1974 Wheels car of the year, is this true

"PASSAT WHEELS CAR OF THE YEAR.....IN THE FLESH"


This is true. The Passat TS won Wheels car of the year in 1974. It was seen as a car that was much ahead of its time for early to mid 70's standards.

If your interested in Passat Aussie production i recommend a book called Volkswagen In Australia. Its got a great section on early Passats.

[vinderliker]

Can anyone tell me how to track down a copy of the book, as I have heard it is out of print.

[phaeton]

Can anyone tell me how to track down a copy of the book, as I have heard it is out of print.

http://www.pitstop.net.au/view/marques-volkswagen-beetle/page/query/plu/15343/

[BL33SU]

The 2.8 L V6 30V, pumps out 193 PS (142 kW). Torque: 206 ft-lbs.

we have a 1999 and the motor is just the best, heaps of power!

http://www.vwwatercooled.com.au/forums/images/imported/2006/01/passat7-1.jpg

Andy

bro hot front end. any other pics??
also whered u get that grill from? ebay? seen some there but not sure if they r as good quality as the branded 1's..

[vinderliker]

Thanks for that, I had to many other things rolling around in my head for such a simple answer.


http://www.pitstop.net.au/view/marques-volkswagen-beetle/page/query/plu/15343/

[Lukev85]

Can anyone tell me how to track down a copy of the book, as I have heard it is out of print.



Any book store should have it. But there is a place in WA called pit stop book shop. Just order it through the website, delivery is super speedy

[leftfooter]

I had an Audi Fox in 1982 (I think it was about a 1977 model) that was pretty much exactly a rebadged Passat (or vice versa) - actually I think the Passat at that time was only a hatchback, this was a sedan. I seem to recall it was a 2.0 litre and was probably one of the nicest cars I ever owned. Now I have just bought a 2004 Passat V5, and I love it so much I think I am going to have to log off and go for a drive.

[phaeton]

Welcome to VWwA leftfooter :D

I think you'll find some Audi influence in your current Passat enjoy the drive j:

[Dave_09JETTA]

I had the 1973 TS Passat and loved that car I got it second hand back in 1983, took it on our honymoon to Tasmania in 1984. Yes back then you could take your car on the boat too, we drove around Tassie for 8 days loving every minute. From memory I think it came to its demise in 1986 when someone went through a red light and smashed it up so bad that I had to say goodbye :frown:.
It was white with a black venal roof looked pretty cool and took off like a rocket. I havent owned a VW since but now Im waiting for my 09 VW Jetta to get to the dealer so I can once again enjoy my ride.

[PassatB6]

The Passat was introduced in 1974 in Australia from memory. I owned a 1974 L which had a 1300 motor. Bought it around 1978. It won COTY as did the Mk 1 Golf soon after. The Golf was a real revolution at the time.

The Passat was very advanced being light,nimble,economical and roomy and yet felt quite strong. There was a sporty 2 door TS 1600(1588cc) with twin round headlights,the most popular and middle of the road 4 door LS 1500(1470cc) with single square headlights and the cheaper 2 door L 1300(1296cc) with single round headlights larger than than those on the TS.

BTW the Passat was not a hatchback. It was just shaped like one but had a normal boot.

There would be few if any L's left today. The 1300 motor was a cracker (as were all the engines), high revving but seemed to be almost unburstable. Most Passats were either light blue or mustard yellow from memory. Occasional white one. Remember seeing a white one with a brown vinyl roof, what a gem that would be now!

[gregozedobe]

I saw a white 1970's Passat today at my local shopping centre, they are a lot smaller than the current Passat (more like Polo size). This one looked pretty well kept, with mags and a mild exhaust.

[vinderliker]

That must have been myself and the Little Beastie! Was it at Erindale? I have seen your RS wagon there before. Next time I will introduce myself.
James



I saw a white 1970's Passat today at my local shopping centre, they are a lot smaller than the current Passat (more like Polo size). This one looked pretty well kept, with mags and a mild exhaust.

[Peter Jones]

I'm currently putting a 1980 Passat back on the road. I think this was a special order, I've never seen another one like it here.

This is still a B1 but it's a transition model known sometimes as the "facelift" version.

Many similarities with the earlier Passats. These came off the Audi production line alongside the Audi 80s I believe.

Here's the Project Thread (http://www.vwwatercooled.org.au/newforum/upload/showthread.php?t=24078).

http://www.vwwatercooled.com.au/forums/images/imported/2008/12/P1320619-1.jpg

[gregozedobe]

That must have been myself and the Little Beastie! Was it at Erindale? I have seen your RS wagon there before. Next time I will introduce myself.
James

Yup, Erindale it certainly was.

I was actually considering one of those new (or the Audi version) back in 1973/4, but ended buying a Celica. Mainly cos the ladies seemed to prefer the looks of the Celica ! In my defence I was but a callow youth at the time.

It would be good to say hello to a fellow forumite, so next time we can have a mini-GTG (unless it is the missus driving the RS, in which case she would react as if you are a nerd from outer space ;) )

The bright yellow wagon sure is easy to see in a car park :biggrin:

Greg C

[h100vw]

Almost 2 years later I scanned in the German Passat brochure I have with the G60 in. I have the Variant brochure as well but it's not that different that I could be bothered scanning it too.

Gavin


http://s40.photobucket.com/albums/e203/h100vw/Der%20Passat/

[phaeton]

Thanks Gavin :D

[Thanakorn]

Hi all
I've just signed on after I find this website from google. I am very happy to join in this website.

This is my Passat B1 of my family. This car stay with me more than 30 years and I love my B1 so much.

I would like to find spare part for restoration my Passat B1.

My Passat B1 is 4 Doors
1,500 CC , Engine Code ZB , LS Model

Please give me advice.

Regard.,
Paul

[phaeton]

Welcome Paul :D

Beautiful Passat :o

Is that a Sinapore number plate ?

[Thanakorn]

Hi Phaeton
Thank for your welcome.

It's my Passat in Bangkok, Thailand. I drive my B1 everyday. :driver::driver:

If anybody have advice about spare part, please give me. I am very glad to hear from all of you.

Regard.,

[tryingavw]

Yup, Erindale it certainly was.

I was actually considering one of those new (or the Audi version) back in 1973/4, but ended buying a Celica. Mainly cos the ladies seemed to prefer the looks of the Celica ! In my defence I was but a callow youth at the time.

Greg C

hey greg the sillycar worked for me too! i had a gold one

[nting]

hey greg the sillycar worked for me too! i had a gold one

Haha, guilty too. I'm actually still a sillycar fan though. Have had 7 of them... so far... the youngest being an '86 ST162. Personal favourite is the RA28 "mustang back".

Hehe, bad habits never die...

[Hammerhead]

VW's Passat is the largest car in their lineup.

Wouldn't that be the Phaeton?

[gav t]

hi guys i had several passats a long time ago and even raced a 76 2 door at barbagallo back in the early 90s
the were a great and very underrated will try and dig out some photos

[phaeton]

No, the G60 engine was only applied to the Corrado. The engine that was unique to the Passat was the 4.0 litre W8.

It was fitted to the Passat see here http://www.vwwatercooled.org.au/forums/f27/history-vw-passat-5423-2.html#post53723

[B35i Passat syncro g60]

Almost 2 years later I scanned in the German Passat brochure I have with the G60 in. I have the Variant brochure as well but it's not that different that I could be bothered scanning it too.

Gavin


The best photos and videos | Photobucket (http://s40.photobucket.com/albums/e203/h100vw/Der%20Passat/)

Sir, is it possible to give another link for the brochure of Passat syncro g60, because the above does not work to me.

Thank you very much!

http://i361.photobucket.com/albums/oo57/hellenic_vanagon/Th_b3g60_12.jpg