2009 Chevrolet Tahoe vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe is newer by 12 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe (311 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (108 HP @ 4150 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe weights approximately 174 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 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe (454 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (235 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe 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. 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chevrolet Tahoe | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Tahoe | Passat |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5300 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 311 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4150 RPM |
Torque | 454 Nm | 235 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1375 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1960 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2710 mm |