2003 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (270 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 388 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen Passat | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1548 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
