1996 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 Lexus RX
To start off, 2011 Lexus RX is newer by 15 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus RX (275 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 2011 Lexus RX (348 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2011 Lexus RX 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. 2011 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Lexus |
| Model | Passat | RX |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 348 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2741 mm |
