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 2,138 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Triumph TR3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 57 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 626 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 (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 78 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 | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2138 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 172 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3350 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 904 kg | 1530 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4771 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1516 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 70 L |