2009 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1077 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Passat | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Passat | V40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2307 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2570 mm |
