2002 Volkswagen Passat W8 Sedan Los Angeles CA

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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