2004 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 8 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 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (125 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 122 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (225 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Passat | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Passat | 850 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 58 L |
