1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2013 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Passat (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 363 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 2013 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2013 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cavalier | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1563 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4868 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1835 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1487 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2803 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
