1985 Volkswagen Passat Hatchback (B2; facelift 1985) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the 1985 Passat Hatchback ranges from 910 to 1031 kg (approximately 2006 to 2274 lbs), depending on the engine and trim level. Its maximum permissible weight varies between 1350 and 1540 kg (about 2976 to 3397 lbs). This relatively light weight contributes to fuel efficiency and nimble driving dynamics for a mid-80s hatchback.

The luggage capacity in the 1985 Passat Hatchback is 480 liters (approximately 16.9 cubic feet) with all seats in their normal position. When the rear seats are folded down, the cargo space expands significantly to 1542 liters (about 54.4 cubic feet), making it highly versatile for carrying larger items and enhancing its practicality compared to traditional sedans.

The Volkswagen Passat B2 facelift typically came with either 13-inch or 14-inch rims. Suitable tire sizes included 175/70 R13 and 195/60 R14. The availability of two rim and tire sizes gave options for balancing ride comfort and handling performance depending on driver preferences or specific trim levels.

With a height of 1385 mm (54.5 inches) and a width of 1710 mm (67.3 inches), the Passat Hatchback offers a relatively low and moderate stance. This low height helps reduce aerodynamic drag and enhances high-speed stability. Meanwhile, its moderate width provides a comfortable cabin without making the car excessively wide for urban driving and parking.

Standard home garages typically have door openings around 2400 mm (94.5 inches) wide and 2100 mm (82.6 inches) tall, with lengths varying but often around 4800 mm (189 inches). The Passat Hatchback's dimensions at 4425 mm (174.2 inches) length, 1710 mm (67.3 inches) width, and 1385 mm (54.5 inches) height mean it fits comfortably within most standard garages, leaving ample space for passenger entry and additional storage.

Compared to the original B1 Passat, the B2 facelift of 1985 introduced subtle dimensional increases and styling updates, like a sportier hatchback design and aerodynamic improvements. The B2 is slightly larger, with improved luggage capacity—480 liters compared to the smaller space in the B1. Additionally, the B2 models typically had enhanced interior quality and refined suspension, promoting a more comfortable ride and better handling.

In the context of mid-1980s hatchbacks, the Passat B2 facelift sits in the mid-size segment, larger than compact hatchbacks like the VW Golf but smaller than larger estate or sedan counterparts. With a length of 4425 mm and spacious cargo capacity when seats are folded, it offered a balance of passenger comfort and cargo practicality, competing well against cars like the Ford Sierra hatchback or Opel Ascona hatchback in terms of space and versatility.

The Passat B2 facelift's relatively compact length and width (4425 mm x 1710 mm) make it quite nimble for urban driving and parking, while its moderate height (1385 mm) and curb weight (around 910-1031 kg) contribute to an agile yet stable ride on highways. This balance makes it suitable for daily commuting and longer trips, offering good maneuverability without sacrificing cabin space.

The Passat B2 facelift is equipped with 13-inch or 14-inch rims, accommodating tires sized 175/70 R13 and 195/60 R14 respectively. The 13-inch rims with taller tires generally provide a softer ride, absorbing road imperfections better, while the 14-inch rims with lower-profile tires offer sharper handling and improved cornering stability at the expense of a slightly firmer ride.