1961 Ford Zodiac vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 356 kg more than 1961 Ford Zodiac. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Ford Zodiac 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 Zodiac. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (187 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Zodiac.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Ford Zodiac | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Zodiac | Passat |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2552 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1547 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 62 L |
