2005 Mercury Mountaineer vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Mercury Mountaineer is newer by 9 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 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercury Mountaineer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercury Mountaineer (210 HP) has 136 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Mountaineer should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercury Mountaineer weights approximately 801 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 2005 Mercury Mountaineer 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, 2005 Mercury Mountaineer 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, 2005 Mercury Mountaineer (344 Nm) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm). This means 2005 Mercury Mountaineer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercury Mountaineer | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mountaineer | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2011 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
