1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 15 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 5,735 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (252 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 885 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 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 (448 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. 1997 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Express | Passat |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Van | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5735 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 252 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 448 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Vehicle Weight | 2390 kg | 1505 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2712 mm |