1997 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 Mini Cooper

To start off, 2011 Mini Cooper 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 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mini Cooper (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 55 kg more than 2011 Mini Cooper.

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 Mini Cooper (240 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Volkswagen Passat 2011 Mini Cooper
Make Volkswagen Mini
Model Passat Cooper
Year Released 1997 2011
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1780 cc 1600 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 5 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 123 HP 181 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 168 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 1600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1350 kg 1295 kg
Vehicle Length 4680 mm 3729 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1684 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1415 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2466 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 50 L