2004 Buick Rainier vs. 1996 Volkswagen Parati
To start off, 2004 Buick Rainier is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Parati. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Parati would be higher. At 4,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Buick Rainier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Buick Rainier (276 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Parati. (91 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick Rainier should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Parati. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Buick Rainier weights approximately 1124 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Parati. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Buick Rainier is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Parati. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Buick Rainier 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 Buick Rainier (380 Nm) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Parati. (148 Nm). This means 2004 Buick Rainier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Parati.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Buick Rainier | 1996 Volkswagen Parati | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rainier | Parati |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 102 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2099 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2480 mm |
