Volkswagen Santana
The three-box Passat that sparked a Chinese automotive revolution.
- Power
- 90 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 10.9 s
- Top speed
- 105 mph
- Est. value
- $3k–$8k
About the Volkswagen Santana
The Volkswagen Santana was introduced in 1981 as a more upmarket, three-box saloon alternative to the second-generation Passat (B2). While it enjoyed a brief production run in Europe, its true legacy was forged in China, where it became the cornerstone of the nation's mass motorisation through the SAIC-Volkswagen joint venture. The 1.8-litre variant offered dependable, no-nonsense performance with a longitudinal engine layout and a spacious interior that appealed to middle-management and families alike. Today, it is remembered as a robust workhorse and a significant piece of industrial history, particularly in the Asian and South American markets where production continued for decades after it left European showrooms.
Volkswagen Santana specs
The Volkswagen Santana produces 90 bhp (67 kW) and 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 10.9 seconds and has a top speed of 105 mph (169 km/h).
| Make | Volkswagen |
|---|---|
| Model | Santana |
| Trim | 1.8 |
| Years | 1981–1984 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | Germany |
| Engine | 1.8-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,781 cc (1.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 90 bhp (67 kW) at 5,200 rpm |
| Torque | 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 10.9 s |
| Top speed | 105 mph (169 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 946 kg (2,086 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 95 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Volkswagen Santana worth?
A typical Volkswagen Santana is estimated to be worth $3,000 – $7,500 (about £2,200 – £5,600).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Volkswagen Santana rarity in CarSpot
The Volkswagen Santana is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 18 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Volkswagen Santana fun facts
- The Santana was so successful in China that production of the original B2-based design continued until 2012, nearly 30 years after its European debut.
- In North America, the Santana was marketed as the Volkswagen Quantum, while in Mexico it was known as the Corsar and in Argentina as the Carat.
- The name 'Santana' was inspired by the Santa Ana winds of California, following Volkswagen's tradition of naming cars after winds.