2003 Ford Mustang vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Ford Mustang is newer by 7 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 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 275 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (125 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2003 Ford Mustang is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Ford Mustang (556 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 387 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (169 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Mustang | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Mustang | Passat |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4599 cc | 1779 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 400 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 556 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90.2 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |