1996 Mitsubishi Challenger 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 Mitsubishi Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger (242 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger weights approximately 416 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger 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, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Challenger | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1534 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2590 mm |
