1997 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 110 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Passat | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1421 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
