2003 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 499 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen Passat | 1998 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1489 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
