1996 Toyota 4Runner 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 Toyota 4Runner. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota 4Runner would be higher. At 2,982 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1996 Toyota 4Runner. (123 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota 4Runner. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 340 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1996 Toyota 4Runner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Toyota 4Runner 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota 4Runner. (295 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota 4Runner. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1996 Toyota 4Runner has manual transmission. 1996 Toyota 4Runner 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 Toyota 4Runner | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4Runner | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2982 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1850 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
