1996 Audi A4 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A4 would be higher. At 4,003 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Passat (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 400 kg more than 1996 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (173 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 2001 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A4 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
