1955 Buick 40 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Buick 40 would be higher. At 5,277 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Buick 40 (234 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Buick 40 weights approximately 515 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1955 Buick 40 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 1955 Buick 40. 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, 1955 Buick 40 (447 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1955 Buick 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.

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