1996 Volvo 850 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 21 kg more than 2012 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 850 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 850 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2461 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2712 mm |
