2008 Chrysler Sebring vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Chrysler Sebring is newer by 11 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 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler Sebring is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler Sebring (235 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler Sebring should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler Sebring weights approximately 375 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. 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 2008 Chrysler Sebring. 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, 2008 Chrysler Sebring (316 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (206 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler Sebring will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 Chrysler Sebring has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler Sebring will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler Sebring | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sebring | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 2327 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 316 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
