1997 Porsche Boxster vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Porsche Boxster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Porsche Boxster would be higher. At 2,480 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Porsche Boxster (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Porsche Boxster should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 317 kg more than 1997 Porsche Boxster.
Because 1997 Porsche Boxster 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 Porsche Boxster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Porsche Boxster. (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Porsche Boxster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Porsche Boxster | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | Boxster | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2480 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4775 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2710 mm |
