1997 Chevrolet Express 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 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 25 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Passat. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 939 kg more than 2013 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, 2013 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 343 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Passat. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Chevrolet Express 2013 Volkswagen Passat
Make Chevrolet Volkswagen
Model Express Passat
Year Released 1997 2013
Body Type Van Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 6505 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 193 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 3400 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 583 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 4250 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed automatic
Vehicle Weight 2400 kg 1461 kg
Vehicle Length 5560 mm 4868 mm
Vehicle Width 2020 mm 1835 mm
Vehicle Height 2030 mm 1487 mm
Wheelbase Size 3440 mm 2803 mm