1962 Simca Ariane vs. 1988 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1988 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Simca Ariane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Simca Ariane would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volkswagen Passat (90 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1962 Simca Ariane. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1962 Simca Ariane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 30 kg more than 1962 Simca Ariane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Simca Ariane 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 Simca Ariane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Volkswagen Passat (142 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Simca Ariane. (91 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1988 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Simca Ariane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Simca Ariane | 1988 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Simca | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ariane | Passat |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2630 mm |
