1971 Dodge Dart vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Dodge Dart. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Dodge Dart would be higher. At 3,249 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Dodge Dart is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1971 Dodge Dart. (100 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1971 Dodge Dart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 175 kg more than 1971 Dodge Dart. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Dodge Dart 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 1971 Dodge Dart. 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 (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Dodge Dart. (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Dodge Dart.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Dodge Dart | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Dart | Passat |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3249 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4771 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2712 mm |
