1998 Ford Libre vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1998 Ford Libre is newer by 1 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 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1998 Ford Libre. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Libre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Libre weights approximately 23 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Libre. (112 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Libre.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Libre | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Libre | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1275 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
