1997 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2008 Volvo C30
To start off, 2008 Volvo C30 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo C30 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo C30 weights approximately 131 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. 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 Volvo C30 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Passat | 2008 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Passat | C30 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1406 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
