1997 Dodge Copperhead 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 Dodge Copperhead. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Dodge Copperhead would be higher. At 2,700 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Copperhead is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Copperhead (217 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Copperhead should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 156 kg more than 1997 Dodge Copperhead.
Because 1997 Dodge Copperhead 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 Dodge Copperhead. 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 Dodge Copperhead (255 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Copperhead will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Copperhead | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Copperhead | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2700 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2712 mm |
