1996 Mini MK VI vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mini MK VI. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mini MK VI would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (270 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1996 Mini MK VI. (41 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Mini MK VI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 928 kg more than 1996 Mini MK VI. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mini MK VI. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm) has 301 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mini MK VI. (69 Nm). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mini MK VI. 2003 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1996 Mini MK VI has manual transmission. 1996 Mini MK VI will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mini MK VI | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
| Model | MK VI | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 620 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2680 mm |
