1961 Triumph TR3 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Triumph TR3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Triumph TR3 would be higher. At 2,138 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Triumph TR3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1961 Triumph TR3. (101 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1961 Triumph TR3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 663 kg more than 1961 Triumph TR3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Triumph TR3 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 Triumph TR3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Triumph TR3. (172 Nm @ 3350 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Triumph TR3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Triumph TR3 | 2010 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
| Model | TR3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2138 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3350 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 904 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4775 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 70 L |
