2009 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 13 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 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 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, 2009 Audi A8 (650 Nm) has 440 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (210 Nm). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A8 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2710 mm |
