2007 Pontiac Solstice vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 11 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 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Pontiac Solstice (177 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2007 Pontiac Solstice is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2007 Pontiac Solstice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2007 Pontiac Solstice (225 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (210 Nm). This means 2007 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Pontiac Solstice | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Solstice | Passat |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 177 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 97.8 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2710 mm |
