1991 Volkswagen Passat

Following its introduction in 1990, the 1991 Volkswagen Passat arrived in showrooms with very few changes. Switches from the optional power windows were moved from the upper door panel to the armrest, and a display that indicated the gear for the optional automatic transmission was added to the instrument cluster.

The rest of the package remained unchanged. Power was provided by a 2.0-liter, twin-cam, 4-cylinder engine that generated 134 hp. It was coupled with a five-speed manual overdrive transmission, which was standard. A four-speed automatic was available as an option.

Standard features included power brakes, air conditioning, a rear-window defroster, a tilt steering wheel, bucket seats, and 14-inch wheels. Options included power door locks, leather seats, a sunroof, anti-lock brakes, and a cassette player.

Drivers' reviews were mixed for the Passat, especially for early-'90s models that now have high mileage. Some drivers noted very few problems with the cars, even with the odometer pushing 200k, while others reported numerous repair problems. In particular, drivers noted problems with the Passat's automatic transmission. Repairs also were expensive, drivers reported.