1981 Talbot Samba vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Talbot Samba. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Talbot Samba would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1981 Talbot Samba. (49 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Talbot Samba. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 721 kg more than 1981 Talbot Samba. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Talbot Samba. (85 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Talbot Samba. 2012 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1981 Talbot Samba has manual transmission. 1981 Talbot Samba will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Talbot Samba | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Talbot | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samba | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1123 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3520 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 70 L |
