2006 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2006 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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (235 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (155 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen Passat | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2480 mm |
