2009 Pontiac Solstice vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Solstice 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 2,382 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac Solstice (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (54 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Pontiac Solstice weights approximately 469 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Pontiac Solstice (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (92 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 Pontiac Solstice 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 Pontiac Solstice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Pontiac Solstice | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Solstice | Passat |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2382 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 171 HP | 54 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 92 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 860 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 45 L |