1996 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2012 Renault Duster
To start off, 2012 Renault Duster is newer by 16 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, 2012 Renault Duster (104 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Renault Duster should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 10 kg more than 2012 Renault Duster.
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, 2012 Renault Duster (148 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Renault Duster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Passat | 2012 Renault Duster | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Renault |
| Model | Passat | Duster |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1822 mm |
