1997 Volkswagen Passat Variant (B5) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The width of the Volkswagen Passat Variant (B5) ranges from 1740 mm to 1746 mm, which translates to about 68.5 inches to 68.7 inches wide. This moderate width ensures the vehicle is stable on the road while remaining relatively easy to park in standard urban environments. The width supports a spacious cabin for passengers without significantly compromising agility or fitting into standard parking spaces.

The height of the Volkswagen Passat Variant (B5) varies from 1459 mm to 1498 mm (approximately 57.4 inches to 59.0 inches). This height ensures ample headroom for passengers, offering a comfortable seating position akin to other mid-size station wagons of its time. Additionally, the height provides sufficient vertical cargo space in the rear, making the Passat Variant a practical option for families or those needing significant luggage capacity.

The curb weight of the Passat Variant (B5) ranges from 1270 kg to 1590 kg, equivalent to about 2,800 lbs to 3,507 lbs. The maximum weight, or the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), ranges from 1820 kg up to 2130 kg (approximately 4,013 lbs to 4,695 lbs). These figures mean the vehicle is relatively lightweight for its class, enhancing fuel efficiency and handling, while still being capable of carrying substantial cargo and passengers safely within its maximum weight limits.

The luggage capacity with the rear seats in the upright position ranges from 450 liters to 495 liters (around 15.9 to 17.5 cubic feet). When the rear seats are folded down, the cargo volume expands significantly to between 1500 liters and 1600 liters, approximately 53 to 56.5 cubic feet. This flexibility makes the Passat Variant highly practical for transporting large or bulky items, catering well to families, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone needing spacious cargo options.

Yes, the Volkswagen Passat Variant (B5) fits comfortably into a standard garage. Typical residential garage dimensions are about 2.4 meters (8 feet) wide and 5.4 meters (18 feet) deep. Given that the Passat Variant's width ranges from 1.74 meters to 1.75 meters (5.7 to 5.74 feet) and length is about 4.68 meters (15.35 feet), it leaves adequate space for opening doors and maneuvering inside the garage. Its moderate height of up to 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) poses no issues with most garage heights.

Compared to the predecessor Passat Variant (B4), the B5 generation saw mild increases in exterior dimensions and weight, reflecting industry trends toward improved safety and comfort. The B5 is slightly longer and wider, contributing to enhanced interior space and cargo volume. Weight increased moderately due to added equipment and structural reinforcements but remained competitive within its class, preserving driving dynamics and fuel efficiency effectively.

The Passat Variant (B5) aligns well with contemporaries like the Audi A4 Avant and BMW 3 Series Touring from the late 1990s, showing a similar length around 4.6 to 4.7 meters. Its width is slightly less than some competitors, contributing to nimble handling, but its cargo capacity often surpasses rivals due to smart interior packaging. Overall, it balances size and practicality exceptionally well within the midsize station wagon segment.

The Volkswagen Passat Variant (B5) came with a variety of rim sizes ranging from 15 inches to 16 inches. Specific dimensions include 6J x 15, 15 x 16, and 7J x 16 inch rims. Corresponding tire sizes included 195/65 R15, 205/55 R16, and 195/65 R15. These sizes provide a balance of comfort, road grip, and fuel efficiency, suitable for both city and highway driving.

The Volkswagen Passat Variant (B5) is a station wagon, produced between 1997 and 2000. This body style combines the driving dynamics of a midsize sedan with the added utility of an extended cargo area. The station wagon design makes the Passat Variant highly versatile, ideal for families or those needing extra space without moving up to larger SUVs or vans, while still offering comfortable passenger seating and improved fuel economy.