1996 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 17 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (54 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 557 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (92 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Passat | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1417 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
