1958 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 50 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (178 HP) has 134 more horse power than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (44 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 919 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 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (371 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (71 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sprite | Passat |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 178 HP |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 124 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 664 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 62 L |
