Volkswagen Passat

The Volkswagen Passat by Italdesign: The first generation of the Volkswagen Passat was derived from the Audi 80 B1. The Italian designer Giugiaro gave the first Passat an independent appearance. It is one of the few three-door mid-size hatchbacks and was aimed at customers who preferred the TL fastback version of the Type 3 that preceded it. The new car was immediately well received by the public. The range offered, at prices starting at DM 9,060, included the Basis and L equipment, each with a 55 hp (40 kW) 1.3 or 75 hp (55 kW) 1.5 liter engine (S and LS) could be combined. The top model was the Passat TS with 75 hp (55 kW) or 85 hp (63 kW). In August 1975, the 1.5-liter engines were replaced by 1.6-liter four-cylinders of the same power. The individual trim levels were primarily recognizable from the outside by the different headlights. In the basic configuration, the Passat was fitted with individual round headlights, as an L and as an LS with square broadband headlights, and as a TS with double headlights. Inside the TS there was a three-spoke sports steering wheel and a center console with three additional instruments. Series production of the Passat began on May 14, 1973. In January 1974, a station wagon version (Type 33) was presented with the Variant. In addition, the hatchback was available from the outset as a two- and four-door model with a small trunk lid, which was also available with a large tailgate from January 1975.