2007 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (125 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (241 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (169 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | Passat |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2710 mm |
