2003 Hyundai Matrix vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Hyundai Matrix is newer by 6 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 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2003 Hyundai Matrix. (104 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2003 Hyundai Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 300 kg more than 2003 Hyundai Matrix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Hyundai Matrix. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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 (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Hyundai Matrix. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Hyundai Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Hyundai Matrix | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matrix | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1606 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
