1997 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2009 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2009 Opel Insignia is newer by 12 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 2,327 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2009 Opel Insignia. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2009 Opel Insignia.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Opel Insignia. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Opel Insignia (300 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (206 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Insignia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 Opel Insignia has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Opel Insignia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Passat | 2009 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Opel |
| Model | Passat | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2327 cc | 1956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2737 mm |
