1961 NSU Prinz IV 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 NSU Prinz IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 NSU Prinz IV would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. (30 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 855 kg more than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 NSU Prinz IV 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 NSU Prinz IV. 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 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. (44 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. 2005 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1961 NSU Prinz IV has manual transmission. 1961 NSU Prinz IV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 NSU Prinz IV | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | NSU | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prinz IV | Passat |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 598 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 30 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 44 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 116 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 565 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2050 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 62 L |
