2008 Dodge Magnum vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Dodge Magnum 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 Dodge Magnum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Magnum (250 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (108 HP @ 4150 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Magnum should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Magnum weights approximately 370 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 2008 Dodge Magnum is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Magnum 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 Dodge Magnum (339 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (235 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Magnum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 Dodge Magnum 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 Dodge Magnum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Magnum | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Magnum | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2710 mm |
