2004 Buick Rainier vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
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 Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat 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 (275 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick Rainier should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2004 Buick Rainier 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 2004 Buick Rainier. 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, 2004 Buick Rainier (387 Nm) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (210 Nm). This means 2004 Buick Rainier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Buick Rainier | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rainier | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 387 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2710 mm |
