1996 Audi A4 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 15 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 282 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.
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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (202 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A4 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4775 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
