1988 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2011 Volvo XC90 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo XC90 (240 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 1055 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 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, 2011 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (121 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. 2011 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Passat | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 80 L |
