1996 Ferrari 512 M vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ferrari 512 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ferrari 512 M would be higher. At 4,942 cc, 1996 Ferrari 512 M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ferrari 512 M (422 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ferrari 512 M should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ferrari 512 M weights approximately 137 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1996 Ferrari 512 M 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 1996 Ferrari 512 M. 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, 1996 Ferrari 512 M (500 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Ferrari 512 M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Ferrari 512 M 2006 Volkswagen Passat
Make Ferrari Volkswagen
Model 512 M Passat
Year Released 1996 2006
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 4942 cc 1984 cc
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 422 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 6750 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 500 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 5500 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1455 kg 1318 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4210 mm
Vehicle Height 1140 mm 1590 mm
Wheelbase Size 2560 mm 2720 mm