1997 Holden Statesman 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 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Holden Statesman (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 12 kg more than 1997 Holden Statesman.
Because 1997 Holden Statesman 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 Holden Statesman. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Holden Statesman. (305 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Holden Statesman. 1997 Holden Statesman has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Holden Statesman will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Holden Statesman | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Statesman | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1532 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2720 mm |
