1997 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2012 Chevrolet Colorado
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Colorado is newer by 15 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Colorado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Colorado (300 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Colorado should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Colorado weights approximately 425 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.
Because 2012 Chevrolet Colorado is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Chevrolet Colorado. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Colorado (433 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Colorado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Passat | 2012 Chevrolet Colorado | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | Passat | Colorado |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 5300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 433 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
