1970 Maserati Mistral vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Maserati Mistral. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Maserati Mistral would be higher. At 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Maserati Mistral is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Maserati Mistral (252 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Maserati Mistral should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 235 kg more than 1970 Maserati Mistral.
Because 1970 Maserati Mistral 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 1970 Maserati Mistral. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1970 Maserati Mistral (363 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1970 Maserati Mistral will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Maserati Mistral | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Maserati | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mistral | Passat |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
