1950 Citroen 2CV vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,457 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volkswagen Passat (47 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1950 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1950 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 417 kg more than 1950 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1978 Volkswagen Passat (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1950 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1978 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1950 Citroen 2CV.

Compare all specifications:

1950 Citroen 2CV 1978 Volkswagen Passat
Make Citroen Volkswagen
Model 2CV Passat
Year Released 1950 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 375 cc 1457 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Horse Power 10 HP 47 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 22 Nm 83 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 66 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 62 mm 80 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 498 kg 915 kg
Vehicle Length 3780 mm 4300 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2380 mm 2400 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 19 L 45 L