1996 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2010 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2010 Fiat Panda is newer by 14 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2010 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2010 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 257 kg more than 2010 Fiat Panda. 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, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Fiat Panda. 2010 Fiat Panda has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Fiat Panda will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Passat | 2010 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Fiat |
| Model | Passat | Panda |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 70.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 953 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1600 mm |
