1996 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2000 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,324 cc, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 117 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2000 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Passat | 2000 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2324 cc |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1327 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
