2003 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 127 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (326 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850. 2003 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen Passat | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Passat | 850 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 326 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1493 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
