1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 11 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 7,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (286 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 839 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 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 (555 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (320 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Express | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Van | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7439 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 555 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2424 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1520 mm |
