1996 Ford Taurus vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 3,400 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Taurus (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Taurus weights approximately 63 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Ford Taurus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Taurus | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taurus | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3400 cc | 2327 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1518 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2710 mm |
