1966 Austin A 40 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Volkswagen Passat (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1966 Austin A 40. (47 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1966 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 118 kg more than 1966 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Austin A 40 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 1966 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1977 Volkswagen Passat (95 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Austin A 40. (81 Nm). This means 1977 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Austin A 40 | 1977 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 40 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 762 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2480 mm |
