2002 Peugeot 406 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2002 Peugeot 406 is newer by 6 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Peugeot 406 (134 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 140 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, 2002 Peugeot 406 (191 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Peugeot 406 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
| Model | 406 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
