2002 Volkswagen Passat W8 Sedan Arizona

Volkswagen makes its preliminary move toward providing more luxurious and powerful automobiles with the introduction of the Passat W8. The Passat has become a successful midsize model for Volkswagen, both in its sedan and wagon configuration. With the new W8 engine, VW takes both the 4- and 5-door Passats to new heights.

The W8 is unlike any eight-cylinder engine ever built. In conceptual terms, the W engine is basically two narrow four-cylinder engines joined together at their center line, forming a W that has displacement typical of a large standard American V-8 engine, yet it is not much larger than a compact car's four-cylinder. VW engineers were able to do this and fit the package into the Passat's compact engine compartment. (This also opens up a whole new arena for engine possibilities: A W12 and even a W16 cylinder engine are either being tested or are under development.)

Although the Passat's eight-cylinder engine is compact, it produces the power of the typical V-8 engine. By producing 270 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft. of torque, this small package has the power of an American musclecar. This combination makes the Passat a darn capable automobile that goes far beyond the engine.

Author: Ron Moorhead

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