1961 Fiat 1100 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 Fiat 1100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat 1100 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1961 Fiat 1100. (43 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1961 Fiat 1100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 566 kg more than 1961 Fiat 1100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1961 Fiat 1100 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 Fiat 1100. 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 (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Fiat 1100. (73 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Fiat 1100.

Compare all specifications:

1961 Fiat 1100 2012 Volkswagen Passat
Make Fiat Volkswagen
Model 1100 Passat
Year Released 1961 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1089 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 43 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 73 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 4250 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 870 kg 1436 kg
Vehicle Length 3780 mm 4769 mm
Vehicle Width 1460 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2340 mm 2712 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 57 L 70 L