1972 Porsche 914 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Porsche 914. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Porsche 914 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Porsche 914 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1972 Porsche 914. (108 HP @ 5850 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1972 Porsche 914. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 544 kg more than 1972 Porsche 914. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Porsche 914 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 1972 Porsche 914. 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 (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Porsche 914. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Porsche 914.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Porsche 914 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 914 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 10.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1484 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4771 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
