1998 Renault Clio vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Renault Clio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Renault Clio would be higher. At 1,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1998 Renault Clio. (79 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1998 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 690 kg more than 1998 Renault Clio. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Renault Clio. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Renault Clio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Renault Clio | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Clio | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 107 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.1 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
