2004 Pontiac Aztek vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Pontiac Aztek 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 3,392 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Pontiac Aztek is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Pontiac Aztek (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Aztek should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Pontiac Aztek weights approximately 506 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Pontiac Aztek 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 Pontiac Aztek 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 Pontiac Aztek (285 Nm) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm). This means 2004 Pontiac Aztek will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2004 Pontiac Aztek has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Pontiac Aztek will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Pontiac Aztek | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Aztek | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3392 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1716 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1620 mm |
