2004 Volkswagen Phaeton vs. 1990 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (239 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1990 Volkswagen Passat. (157 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1990 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 650 kg more than 1990 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Volkswagen Passat 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 Volkswagen Phaeton (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volkswagen Passat. (225 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | 1990 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Phaeton | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 239 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
