1971 Ginetta G21 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ginetta G21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ginetta G21 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ginetta G21 (85 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ginetta G21 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 473 kg more than 1971 Ginetta G21.
Because 1971 Ginetta G21 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 Ginetta G21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ginetta G21. (123 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ginetta G21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ginetta G21 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ginetta | Volkswagen |
| Model | G21 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1725 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 737 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1620 mm |
