1996 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1997 Dodge Intrepid
To start off, 1997 Dodge Intrepid is newer by 1 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 3,228 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Intrepid is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Intrepid (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Intrepid should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 1997 Dodge Intrepid (257 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Intrepid will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 1997 Dodge Intrepid 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. 1997 Dodge Intrepid will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Passat | 1997 Dodge Intrepid | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Dodge |
| Model | Passat | Intrepid |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 3228 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5123 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2870 mm |
