G 055 025 A2 (ATF Type - often referred to as LT71141 specification, though specific VW part numbers vary).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length Sedan:
4717 mm (185.7 in)
Length Wagon:
4767 mm (187.7 in)
Width:
1785 mm (70.3 in)
Height:
1459 mm (57.4 in)
Wheelbase:
2706 mm (106.5 in)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x112
Wheel Size:
15-inch or 16-inch alloy wheels standard depending on trim.
Cargo
Cargo Volume Sedan:
513 liters (18.1 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Wagon:
475 liters (16.8 cu ft) seats up / 1510 liters (53.3 cu ft) seats down
Weights
Curb Weight 1.8T FWD:
1455 kg (3208 lbs)
Curb Weight Vr6 FWD:
1540 kg (3395 lbs)
Curb Weight Vr6 4Motion:
1620 kg (3571 lbs)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (for models tested by NHTSA)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (varies by specific test and year; the B5 generation generally performed well for its time).
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional traction control (ASR - Anti-Slip Regulation) available on some models, particularly with VR6 and 4MOTION.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side airbags were optional on some later models or specific trims.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants. Rear seat belts.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced body structure for improved crashworthiness.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette player with optional CD changer. Upgraded Monsoon sound system available on higher trims.
Navigation:
No factory integrated navigation system was commonly available in 1997. Aftermarket units were the only option.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Parking Assistance:
No factory parking sensors or backup cameras.
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
No Bluetooth or integrated smartphone connectivity. Dealer-installed car phone options may have existed.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using approved synthetic oil).
Timing Belt Interval 1.8T:
Approximately 60,000 - 80,000 miles or 5 years. This is a critical maintenance item for the 1.8T engine.
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect annually, replace as needed (typically every 15,000-20,000 miles).
Spark Plugs 1.8T:
Typically every 60,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Refer to manual. Typically recommended every 40,000-60,000 miles, though VW often listed them as 'lifetime' requiring specific fluid and procedure.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Recommended every 60,000-80,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
G 002 000 (or Pentosin CHF 11S)
Known Issues
Ignition Coils 1.8T:
Early models (especially 1997-1999) were known for coil pack failures leading to misfires.
Mass Air Flow Sensor 1.8T:
Can become fouled, leading to poor running conditions.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and seals can develop leaks over time.
Automatic Transmission 01M:
Known for potential valve body issues, solenoid failures, and overheating if not properly maintained, especially in earlier iterations.
Climate Control Actuators:
Blend door actuators in the HVAC system can fail, leading to improper air temperature or distribution.
Suspension Components:
Control arm bushings and tie rod ends can wear out, leading to clunking noises and steering play.
Window Regulators:
Plastic components in window regulator mechanisms can break.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Volkswagen Legacy:
Volkswagen has a long history of producing robust, well-engineered, and driver-focused vehicles, known for their German precision and build quality.
Model Evolution
Passat B5 Introduction:
The B5 generation of the Passat was introduced in Europe in 1996 and North America for the 1998 model year, replacing the B4 generation. The 1997 model year reflects its initial release in some markets before its full North American introduction.
Platform:
The B5 Passat utilized Volkswagen's widely acclaimed PL45 platform, shared with the Audi A4 (B5) and A6 (C5), contributing to its refined driving characteristics and sophisticated feel.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Emden, Germany, and also in China and other international locations.
Production Years For B5
B5 Generation:
1996-2005 (Europe), 1998-2005 (North America). This manual specifically covers the earlier part of this generation's lifecycle.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Best:
Car and Driver recognized the B5 Passat in its annual '10Best' lists in the late 1990s, praising its refinement and European feel for its price class.
Continental Tire Award:
Often cited for good ride and handling characteristics, earning positive reviews from automotive journalists.
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