2008 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 386 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Passat | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1822 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
