1958 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 2,770 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 884 kg more than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite 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 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (279 Nm) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (71 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sprite | Passat |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 2770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 664 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 62 L |
