2008 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 12 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 190 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Passat (282 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Volkswagen Passat | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | Passat | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1391 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Torque | 282 Nm | 116 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2480 mm |