2005 Nissan Altima vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Nissan Altima 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 2,491 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 2005 Nissan Altima (237 Nm) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Altima | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Altima | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2710 mm |
