2008 Fiat 500 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Fiat 500 is newer by 12 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (74 HP) has 20 more horse power than 2008 Fiat 500. (54 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 230 kg more than 2008 Fiat 500. 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, 2008 Fiat 500 (146 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Fiat 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Fiat 500 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 500 | Passat |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1248 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 54 HP | 74 HP |
Torque | 146 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1210 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1620 mm |