2006 Opel Vectra vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Opel Vectra 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 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Vectra (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Vectra weights approximately 395 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.
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, 2006 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2006 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Vectra | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vectra | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2958 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
