1961 Fiat 1300 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Fiat 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat 1300 would be higher. At 1,481 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Fiat 1300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Fiat 1300 (71 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (47 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Fiat 1300 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Fiat 1300 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Fiat 1300 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 1300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1961 Fiat 1300 (106 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1961 Fiat 1300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1961 Fiat 1300 | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 1300 | Passat |
Year Released | 1961 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1481 cc | 1457 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 71 HP | 47 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 106 Nm | 83 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 915 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2400 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 45 L |