2008 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo 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 2,327 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 399 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (206 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (127 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Polo | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 2327 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1056 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2710 mm |
