1997 Peugeot 406 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Peugeot 406 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1997 Peugeot 406. (108 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1997 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 524 kg more than 1997 Peugeot 406. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Peugeot 406. (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Peugeot 406. 2012 Volkswagen Routan has automatic transmission and 1997 Peugeot 406 has manual transmission. 1997 Peugeot 406 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Peugeot 406 | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
| Model | 406 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2088 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 2084 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1953 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3078 mm |
