1961 Austin A 55 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A 55. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A 55 would be higher. At 3,998 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (270 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 725 kg more than 1961 Austin A 55. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 Austin A 55. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 55. (111 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A 55.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A 55 | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 55 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 3998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
