1961 Austin A 55 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 Austin A 55. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A 55 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 702 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 2008 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 55. (111 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 55 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1822 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 |
