2000 Toyota Avalon vs. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus

To start off, 2000 Toyota Avalon is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,982 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Toyota Avalon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Toyota Avalon (210 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Toyota Avalon should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Toyota Avalon weights approximately 21 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1997 Volkswagen Microbus 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 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Toyota Avalon, 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, 2000 Toyota Avalon (298 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2000 Toyota Avalon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. 2000 Toyota Avalon has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Microbus has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Toyota Avalon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2000 Toyota Avalon 1997 Volkswagen Microbus
Make Toyota Volkswagen
Model Avalon Microbus
Year Released 2000 1997
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2982 cc 2551 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 210 HP 134 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 298 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1681 kg 1660 kg
Vehicle Length 4880 mm 4670 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1850 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1960 mm
Wheelbase Size 2610 mm 2470 mm