2006 Nissan Xterra vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Nissan Xterra is newer by 10 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 3,950 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Xterra (265 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (125 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2006 Nissan Xterra 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, 2006 Nissan Xterra 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, 2006 Nissan Xterra (386 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (169 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Nissan Xterra | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xterra | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3950 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 265 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 386 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
