1998 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 123 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (226 Nm) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1331 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
