2006 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 92 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.
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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (315 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen Passat | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 213 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 1226 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
