2006 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. Both 2006 Volkswagen Passat and 1996 Volvo 850 are equipped with a 1,984 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 72 kg more 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen Passat | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Passat | 850 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2670 mm |
