1996 Peugeot 406 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Peugeot 406 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1996 Peugeot 406. (88 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 584 kg more than 1996 Peugeot 406. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Peugeot 406. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Peugeot 406. (130 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Peugeot 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Peugeot 406 | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
| Model | 406 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1618 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1824 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
