1962 Ford Popular vs. 1983 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Ford Popular. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Ford Popular would be higher. At 1,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Volkswagen Passat (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1962 Ford Popular. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1962 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 210 kg more than 1962 Ford Popular. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Ford Popular 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 1962 Ford Popular. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Ford Popular | 1983 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Popular | Passat |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 31 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58.9 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2560 mm |
