Techno Classica 2023:
Volkswagen celebrates 50 years of the Passat
Volkswagen Passat Turns 50 At Techno Classica 2023
Volkswagen celebrated 50 years of the Passat at the 2023 Techno Classica. The accompanying slogan, the car always reinventing itself, is essentially true. From the humble beginnings of a lifeline from Audi in the form of their old 80, the Passat became one of the most important models in the line-up since the Beetle. In fact, this ordinary family saloon, hatchback, coupe and estate saved the company.
As part of the show there were five specially selected exhibits on display, it was all about the Passat.
Volkswagen Passat B1 LS 1973
The brand new series of the VW Passat production began on the 14 May 1973. The family hatchback was launched with a small boot lid and no load through opening. January 1975 saw the version with the larger opening tailgate that extended up to the roof and contained the rear window enter production.
New drive, new design: series production of the new Passat got underway on 14 May 1973. The family hatchback sedan was launched with a small boot lid without a load-through hatch; the version with a larger rear lid that extended up to the roof and encompassed the rear window went into series production in January 1975.
The car displayed was the oldest Passat in the collection and is part of Volkswagen’s AutoMuseum Foundation. The car has the vehicle identification number 2, making this the oldest Passat in the world.
Volkswagen Passat B1 L Estate 1974
January 1974 saw the Passat Estate added to the model range. The increased practicality made the car an instant success straight away. The estate remained a favourite through the generations selling nearly as well as the saloon in some markets.
The Atlas White, 1974 Passat B1 L Estate is from the Volkswagen Classic vehicle pool and has already been shown at numerous driving events. Powered by a 40kW, or 55 PS engine means that outright performance is limited, but suitably vintage.
Volkswagen Passat B2 CL Formula E 1983
Introduced in October of 1980, the B2 Passat was larger than the outgoing B1 and almost isn’t recognisable as a Passat. The second generation was initially offered as a hatchback, sedan and five door estate. The 1.6 litre engine with 55 kW, or 75 PS was offered as the Formula E version, giving greater economy.
This B2 Passat CL Formula E is finished in Diamond Silver Metallic and is also part of the Volkswagen Classic vehicle collection. Type approval for this particular model was on the 5th of April 1983, meaning that it turns 40 this year.
Volkswagen Passat B2 Electronic 1983
This Passat is a little bit special Belonging to the AutoMuseum Foundation, the Passat B2 Electronic is a unique one off model from 1983 and developed as a concept car.
Featuring four wheel drive, a turbocharger and an extensive range of the latest microelectronics, such as a navigation system, infotainment and many electrical controls. It could be said that this car offered a more realistic vision of the future than any other concept.
Pity they didn’t make it, the big Scirocco looks and the performance to match would have made it very desirable. It wouldn’t have sold as well as a regular hatchback, but I bet it would be highly sought after today.
Volkswagen Passat B3 Estate GT G60 Syncro 1991
The last car in the display is the B3 Passat Estate G60 Syncro. A very rare and collectable model now, this represented the top of the range car in 1989. With a G-lader scroll type supercharged 1.8 litre engine, the Syncro G60 produced 118 kw, 160 PS and put its power down through a four wheel drive system.
The B3 was introduced in 1988 and was a completely new model, coming in saloon, hatchback and estate versions. There was also a GT specification, giving the range a sportier option.
This 1991 example is cared for by the Volkswagen Classic Vehicle Pool and is quite a rare vehicle too. I can’t think of the last time I saw one.
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