2009 Toyota 4Runner vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Toyota 4Runner 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota 4Runner (236 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (54 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 492 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 Toyota 4Runner 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 Toyota 4Runner. 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 Toyota 4Runner (361 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (92 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 Toyota 4Runner 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 Toyota 4Runner will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota 4Runner | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4Runner | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 361 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1352 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 45 L |
