1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express 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 @ 3400 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 911 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 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 233 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (350 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. 1997 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Express | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Van | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6505 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 583 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2400 kg | 1489 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2710 mm |
