1961 AC Ace vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 AC Ace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 AC Ace would be higher. At 2,553 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 AC Ace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1961 AC Ace. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1961 AC Ace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 717 kg more than 1961 AC Ace. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 AC Ace 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 AC Ace. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 AC Ace. (180 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 AC Ace.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 AC Ace | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | AC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ace | Passat |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2553 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 813 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4771 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
