1996 Holden Statesman 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 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Holden Statesman (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 74 kg more than 1996 Holden Statesman.
Because 1996 Holden Statesman 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 Holden Statesman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Holden Statesman. (304 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Holden Statesman. 1996 Holden Statesman has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Holden Statesman will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Holden Statesman | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Statesman | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4771 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2712 mm |
