1996 Ford Ranger vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 4,171 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ranger. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 771 kg more than 1996 Ford Ranger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Ford Ranger. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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 Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ranger. (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ranger | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ranger | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2507 cc | 4171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 2166 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2890 mm |
