1961 Abarth 600 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Abarth 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Abarth 600 would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volkswagen Passat (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1961 Abarth 600. (47 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1961 Abarth 600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 285 kg more than 1961 Abarth 600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Abarth 600 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 1961 Abarth 600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1978 Volkswagen Passat (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Abarth 600. (66 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1978 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Abarth 600.
Compare all specifications:
1961 Abarth 600 | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
Model | 600 | Passat |
Year Released | 1961 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 847 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 47 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 66 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 595 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2480 mm |