1996 Ford Escort 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 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (112 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 411 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 2012 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Escort | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Escort | Passat |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 112 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 173 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1541 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 70 L |