2009 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 198 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Passat | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1463 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
