1966 Triumph Vitesse vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Triumph Vitesse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Triumph Vitesse would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1966 Triumph Vitesse. (94 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1966 Triumph Vitesse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 601 kg more than 1966 Triumph Vitesse. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Triumph Vitesse 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 Triumph Vitesse. 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 (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Triumph Vitesse. (158 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Triumph Vitesse.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Triumph Vitesse | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Triumph | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vitesse | Passat |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1700 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 | 936 kg | 1537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 70 L |
