1956 Aston Martin DB3 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1986 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Aston Martin DB3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Aston Martin DB3 would be higher. At 2,920 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Aston Martin DB3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Aston Martin DB3 (210 HP) has 151 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Aston Martin DB3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 26 kg more than 1956 Aston Martin DB3.
Because 1956 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 1956 Aston Martin DB3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1956 Aston Martin DB3 (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1956 Aston Martin DB3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Aston Martin DB3 | 1986 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Aston Martin | Volkswagen |
| Model | DB3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2920 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 914 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1050 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2560 mm |
