2004 Audi S4 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Audi S4 is newer by 8 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (125 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2004 Audi S4 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, 2004 Audi S4 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, 2004 Audi S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (169 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2004 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi S4 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | S4 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2710 mm |
