2003 Mitsubishi Pajero vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero. (175 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero weights approximately 277 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero. (255 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero. 2012 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero has manual transmission. 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Pajero | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2971 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1563 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2712 mm |
