1971 BMW 3 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1985 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP) has 121 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 BMW 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1985 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2560 mm |
