1992 Alfa Romeo RZ vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Alfa Romeo RZ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Alfa Romeo RZ would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Alfa Romeo RZ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Alfa Romeo RZ (209 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Alfa Romeo RZ should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 149 kg more than 1992 Alfa Romeo RZ.
Because 1992 Alfa Romeo RZ 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 1992 Alfa Romeo RZ. 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 (320 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Alfa Romeo RZ. (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Alfa Romeo RZ. 2006 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1992 Alfa Romeo RZ has manual transmission. 1992 Alfa Romeo RZ will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Alfa Romeo RZ | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | RZ | Passat |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1529 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1480 mm |
