1996 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 423 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 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 (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | Golf | Passat |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1391 cc | 2496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 116 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1583 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2710 mm |