1951 Aston Martin DB3 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Aston Martin DB3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Aston Martin DB3 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1951 Aston Martin DB3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1951 Aston Martin DB3. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1951 Aston Martin DB3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 567 kg more than 1951 Aston Martin DB3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1951 Aston Martin DB3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1951 Aston Martin DB3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (326 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Aston Martin DB3. (243 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Aston Martin DB3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Aston Martin DB3 | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Aston Martin | Volkswagen |
| Model | DB3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1951 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2922 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 243 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1572 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1750 mm |
