1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (138 HP) has 24 more horse power than 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee. (114 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee weights approximately 373 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee. (300 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee has manual transmission. 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Jeep | Volkswagen |
| Model | Grand Cherokee | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1854 kg | 1481 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1490 mm |
