1961 Triumph TR3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 51 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1961 Triumph TR3. (101 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1961 Triumph TR3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 532 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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Triumph TR3. (172 Nm @ 3350 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
Model | TR3 | Passat |
Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2138 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 172 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3350 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 904 kg | 1436 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 70 L |