1996 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (131 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 318 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (225 Nm) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (172 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 62 L |
