1974 BMW 2.8 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 2.8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 2.8 would be higher. At 3,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 2.8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 2.8 (187 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 2.8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 43 kg more than 1974 BMW 2.8.
Because 1974 BMW 2.8 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 1974 BMW 2.8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 2.8. (295 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 2.8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 2.8 | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2.8 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3293 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 78.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2690 mm |
