2008 GMC Sierra vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 GMC Sierra 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 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 GMC Sierra (295 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 GMC Sierra weights approximately 791 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 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra (414 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 GMC Sierra | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sierra | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4800 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 295 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 414 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2141 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5850 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 55 L |
