1961 Ford Popular vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Popular. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Popular would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1961 Ford Popular. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 842 kg more than 1961 Ford Popular. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Ford Popular 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 Ford Popular. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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. 2003 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1961 Ford Popular has manual transmission. 1961 Ford Popular will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Ford Popular | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Popular | Passat |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1170 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 31 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1572 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
