1962 Peugeot 404 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Peugeot 404. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Peugeot 404 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 218 more horse power than 1962 Peugeot 404. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1962 Peugeot 404. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 453 kg more than 1962 Peugeot 404. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Peugeot 404 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 Peugeot 404. 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 (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Peugeot 404. (133 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Peugeot 404.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Peugeot 404 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
| Model | 404 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1618 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1563 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
