1998 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 2 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 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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 Volkswagen Passat (210 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
