1966 Ginetta G12 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Ginetta G12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Ginetta G12 would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Ginetta G12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Ginetta G12 (158 HP) has 109 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Ginetta G12 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 158 kg more than 1966 Ginetta G12.
Because 1966 Ginetta G12 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 Ginetta G12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1966 Ginetta G12 (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1966 Ginetta G12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ginetta G12 | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ginetta | Volkswagen |
| Model | G12 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.5 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 787 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3560 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |
