1996 Mini MK VI 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 Mini MK VI. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mini MK VI would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1996 Mini MK VI. (41 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Mini MK VI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 965 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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 @ 1800 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mini MK VI. (69 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mini MK VI. 2008 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. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mini MK VI | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
| Model | MK VI | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 620 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1520 mm |
