1971 Ford GT 40 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford GT 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford GT 40 would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Ford GT 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ford GT 40 (350 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. (158 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ford GT 40 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1347 kg more than 1971 Ford GT 40.
Because 1971 Ford GT 40 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 Ford GT 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford GT 40. (85 Nm). This means 2009 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford GT 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford GT 40 | 2009 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | GT 40 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 980 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 125 L | 70 L |
