1996 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 250 kg more than 1961 Wartburg 312. 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, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Passat | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Wartburg |
| Model | Passat | 312 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1580 mm |
