1996 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 9 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 1,423 cc, 2005 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (83 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (54 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 85 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, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (118 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (92 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Passat | 2005 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Polo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1423 cc |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 945 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
