1971 Austin 3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 3 would be higher. At 3,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Austin 3 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Austin 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (359 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 3597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
