1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 1986 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Express is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 6,505 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (193 HP) has 134 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 1460 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Express 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 1997 Chevrolet Express. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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 Chevrolet Express (583 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 482 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 1986 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Express | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Van | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6505 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 583 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2400 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2560 mm |
