1955 Peugeot 203 vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1973 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Peugeot 203. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Peugeot 203 would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Volkswagen Passat (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1955 Peugeot 203. (44 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1955 Peugeot 203. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Peugeot 203 weights approximately 31 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1955 Peugeot 203 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 1955 Peugeot 203. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1973 Volkswagen Passat (95 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Peugeot 203. (80 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1973 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Peugeot 203.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Peugeot 203 | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
| Model | 203 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 894 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2480 mm |
