Volkswagen Passat 1977–1980 car dimensions: 4290 mm long, 1615 mm wide and 1360 mm high. Unladen weight is 895 kg. Braked towing is 850 kg.
The 1977 facelift brought a new dashboard styled like the Golf, with radio and heating controls stacked centrally next to the main dials. Higher grades added extra gauges, a sport steering wheel and better seats with headrests. Air conditioning was an option on select trims in certain markets. No electronic driver aids appear in period equipment lists.
The five-door hatch with large tailgate holds 470 litres behind the rear seats. Folding the rear bench opens the space to 1320 litres for longer loads.
Braked towing capacity reaches 850 kg with unbraked at 450 kg. Payload sits at 435 kg. The folding rear seat and low load height support light cargo or occasional work duties.
The cabin is spacious enough for five with good head and leg room even when front seats are back. Seats use durable cloth or vinyl with firm cushions that stay comfortable on long trips. Higher grades add wood-grained dash panels, door armrests, a cigar lighter and electric clock. Fresh-air vents work well and the heater is simple and effective. The 1977 update brought a new dashboard layout with central heating controls.
Petrol engines standard. diesel option from 1978
Oil change every 5,000 miles
Full service every 10,000 miles
Dual diagonal braking system with front discs and rear drums
3-point seat belts standard including rear centre
Heated rear window standard
Petrol engines of 1.3 and 1.6 litres are available, with a diesel added from 1978 for lower consumption. The fuel system uses carburettors or Bosch injection on later petrol versions.
Oil needs changing every 5,000 miles. Full servicing is required only every 10,000 miles. Undersealing is standard and fuses plus other service points are easy to reach.
Safety equipment includes a dual diagonal brake circuit that still stops the car if one half fails, front disc brakes, rear drums and 3-point seat belts. Adjustable head restraints appear on higher grades from the 1977 facelift. The ride was improved at the same time with revised springs and dampers plus a stronger rear anti-roll bar.
Length 4290 mm, Width 1615 mm, Height 1360 mm, Wheelbase 2470 mm (Passat 1977–1980)
Sources: manufacturer data, Wikipedia/passat-kartei.de/auto-data.net.