1998 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2009 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (248 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 368 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen Golf | 2009 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 248 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1292 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
