2006 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1972 ZAZ 966
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 ZAZ 966. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 ZAZ 966 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1972 ZAZ 966. (27 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1972 ZAZ 966. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 578 kg more than 1972 ZAZ 966. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 ZAZ 966 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 ZAZ 966. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 ZAZ 966. (52 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 ZAZ 966.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen Passat | 1972 ZAZ 966 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | ZAZ |
| Model | Passat | 966 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 885 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 54.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2170 mm |
