1988 Porsche 944 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,680 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Porsche 944 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Porsche 944 (162 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (108 HP @ 4150 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Porsche 944 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1988 Porsche 944 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 1988 Porsche 944. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (235 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Porsche 944. (225 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Porsche 944. 1988 Porsche 944 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Porsche 944 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Porsche 944 | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 944 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2680 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2710 mm |
