1996 Chrysler Cirrus vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chrysler Cirrus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chrysler Cirrus would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chrysler Cirrus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chrysler Cirrus (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (158 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chrysler Cirrus should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 96 kg more than 1996 Chrysler Cirrus.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chrysler Cirrus. (230 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chrysler Cirrus. 1996 Chrysler Cirrus has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chrysler Cirrus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chrysler Cirrus | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cirrus | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4771 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
