1973 Volkswagen Passat (B1) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the VW Passat B1 ranges from 905 kg to 920 kg (approximately 1995 to 2028 pounds), depending on configuration and trim. The maximum allowable weight varies between 1330 kg and 1420 kg (2932 to 3130 pounds), accommodating passengers and cargo safely within the vehicle’s design limits.

The Volkswagen Passat B1 provides a substantial luggage capacity of 473 liters (16.7 cubic feet) with the rear seats upright. When the rear seats are folded down, luggage space expands significantly to 1320 liters (46.6 cubic feet), allowing for the transportation of larger items and increased versatility for carrying cargo.

The Volkswagen Passat B1 has a ground clearance of 107 mm (4.21 inches). This relatively low clearance supports stable handling and improved aerodynamics but may limit the car’s ability to navigate rough or uneven terrain. It's best suited for well-maintained roads and typical urban conditions.

Yes, the VW Passat B1 fits comfortably into a standard single-car garage. With a length of 4290 mm (168.9 inches) and width of 1615 mm (63.6 inches), it is well within the typical garage dimensions, which usually measure about 6000 mm (236 inches) in length and 3000 mm (118 inches) in width, leaving enough room for door opening and movement around the vehicle.

The Passat B1 rides on 13-inch rims sized 5J x 13, fitted with tires sized 175/70 R13. These relatively modest tire dimensions complement the car’s compact build, delivering a comfortable ride with decent grip and handling for its time. The tire aspect ratio of 70 ensures a balance between ride comfort and responsive road feedback.

The Volkswagen Passat B1 was one of the early Passat models, effectively succeeding the Volkswagen Type 3 and representing a step into more modern midsize sedan territory in the VW lineup. While slightly larger than the compact Beetle and Type 3, the Passat B1 offered increased interior space and luggage capacity, marking Volkswagen's transition to more family-oriented cars with better practicality and refinement compared to their older, smaller sedans.

Compared to other midsize sedans of the 1970s, such as the Ford Taunus or Opel Rekord, the Volkswagen Passat B1 is somewhat more compact, particularly in width and height, but offers comparable length and competitive luggage capacity. This made the Passat B1 a practical choice in Europe, blending fuel efficiency and maneuverability with family-sized space.

With a curb weight between 905 and 920 kg (approximately 1995 to 2028 pounds), the Passat B1 is relatively lightweight for a midsize sedan, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and nimbleness on the road. The modest weight aids in responsive handling and lower fuel consumption—advantages particularly relevant in the 1970s when fuel economy gained increased importance.

The Volkswagen Passat B1 was primarily available as a sedan during its production span from 1973 to 1980. While other variants such as hatchbacks or station wagons became more prevalent in later Passat generations, the B1 focused mainly on a four-door sedan design which appealed to buyers seeking a practical family car with sleek lines typical of the early 1970s automotive styling.