2001 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 5 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 5,998 cc, 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 770 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.
Because 2001 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Audi A8 (380 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A8 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1980 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1620 mm |
