1961 Abarth 600 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 47 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 779 kg more than 1961 Abarth 600.
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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Abarth 600. (66 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 600 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 66 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| 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 | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
