1981 Volkswagen Passat (B2) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the VW Passat B2 ranges from 905 kg to 1025 kg (1995 to 2259 lbs), depending on the configuration and options. Its maximum permissible weight spans from 1305 kg to 1550 kg (2877 to 3417 lbs). These relatively light weights contribute to agile handling and better fuel efficiency compared to heavier vehicles, making the Passat B2 nimble and economical, especially relevant during the 1980s when efficiency was a notable factor.

The Volkswagen Passat B2 hatchback offers a spacious luggage compartment with a capacity of 480 liters (16.95 cubic feet) when the rear seats are in use. When the rear seats are folded down, the cargo volume significantly expands to 1542 liters (54.45 cubic feet), allowing for versatile transport of larger and bulkier items. This flexibility made the B2 Passat particularly practical for families and users requiring substantial cargo space.

Yes, the Volkswagen Passat B2 fits comfortably within the dimensions of a standard residential garage. Typical garage spaces are about 2400 mm to 3000 mm (7.9 to 9.8 feet) wide and around 4800 mm (15.7 feet) long, which easily accommodate the Passat B2's length of 4435 mm (14.5 feet) and width of 1685 mm (5.5 feet). The hatchback's relatively low height of 1385 mm (4.5 feet) also poses no clearance issues with typical garage door heights.

Compared to the Passat B1, the Passat B2 is slightly larger and more refined in design. The B2's length at 4435 mm (174.6 inches) is an increase over the B1, which measured approximately 4335 mm (170.7 inches) in length. Similarly, the B2 offers enhanced interior space and cargo capacity, especially with its hatchback design, contributing to improved practicality and comfort relative to the earlier B1 generation.

When compared to similar mid-size hatchbacks of the early 1980s, such as the Ford Sierra and Opel Ascona, the Volkswagen Passat B2 stands out due to its balanced dimensions and impressive cargo space. While the length and width are roughly comparable (with slight variations), the Passat B2's large 480 liters (16.95 cubic feet) luggage capacity and 1542 liters (54.45 cubic feet) with folded seats are among the more generous in its class, making it competitive for users prioritizing cargo versatility without excessive exterior size.

The Volkswagen Passat B2 comes standard with 13-inch rims equipped with tires sized 175/70 R13. These tires strike a balance between ride comfort, handling, and fuel economy, aligning well with the vehicle's lightweight dynamics and design for mid-size family use. The relatively narrow width (175 mm) of the tires also supports better rolling resistance, enhancing efficiency especially on the model years typical for the early to mid-1980s.

The relatively low height of 1385 mm (54.5 inches) on the Volkswagen Passat B2 contributes positively to its aerodynamic profile, which can improve fuel efficiency and reduce wind noise at higher speeds. A lower roofline also tends to enhance handling performance by lowering the vehicle’s center of gravity, improving stability through corners. However, the hatchback design maintains adequate headroom and interior comfort despite the low exterior height.

The maximum weight for the VW Passat B2 ranges from 1305 kg to 1550 kg (2877 to 3417 lbs), representing the maximum permissible loaded weight of the vehicle. This includes passengers, cargo, and the vehicle’s own curb weight. Understanding this maximum is important to avoid overloading, which can affect safety, handling, and braking performance. The range indicates versions with differing equipment or optional accessories affecting the vehicle’s weight limits.

The Volkswagen Passat B2 (1980-1988) was distinctive for combining the practicality of a hatchback with the refinement expected from a mid-size car. Its aerodynamic shape was advanced for the time, and the model emphasized space efficiency, offering considerable cargo capacity and comfortable interiors. It was known for reliability, efficient engineering, and versatility, available across various body styles, though the hatchback was particularly popular. These traits helped secure its place as a strong competitor in the European family car segment during the 1980s.