2009 Dodge Sprinter vs. 1988 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2009 Dodge Sprinter is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Sprinter is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Sprinter (152 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (90 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Sprinter should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Passat.

Because 2009 Dodge Sprinter 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 Dodge Sprinter. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 Dodge Sprinter (280 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (142 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Sprinter will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 Dodge Sprinter has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Sprinter will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Dodge Sprinter 1988 Volkswagen Passat
Make Dodge Volkswagen
Model Sprinter Passat
Year Released 2009 1988
Body Type Van Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2986 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 152 HP 90 HP
Engine RPM 3400 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 142 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 18.0:1 9.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 12 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 5910 mm 4580 mm
Vehicle Width 2030 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 2450 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 3670 mm 2630 mm