1961 Austin A 55 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 52 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Passat (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 443 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 1961 Austin A 55 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 Austin A 55. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 55. (111 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 55 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 11.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1563 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4868 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1835 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1487 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2803 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
