1997 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 14 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 3,900 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Impala (230 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 380 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, 2011 Chevrolet Impala (318 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. 2011 Chevrolet Impala 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. 2011 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 Chevrolet Impala | |
Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
Model | Passat | Impala |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1594 cc | 3900 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 230 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 318 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1655 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1852 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1491 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2807 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |