1972 BMW 3 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1986 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (197 HP) has 138 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1972 BMW 3 (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 1986 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Passat |
Year Released | 1972 | 1986 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3003 cc | 1297 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 59 HP |
Torque | 272 Nm | 101 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 73.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2560 mm |