1959 Citroen 2CV vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1029 kg more than 1959 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen 2CV. 2012 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1959 Citroen 2CV has manual transmission. 1959 Citroen 2CV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1959 Citroen 2CV 2012 Volkswagen Passat
Make Citroen Volkswagen
Model 2CV Passat
Year Released 1959 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 375 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Horse Power 10 HP 140 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 22 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 1500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 495 kg 1524 kg
Vehicle Length 3790 mm 4769 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2712 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 19 L 70 L