1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 58 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Volkswagen Golf (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2004 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2004 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1894 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 13 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1273 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
