1976 BMW 3.3 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1986 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 BMW 3.3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 BMW 3.3 would be higher. At 3,295 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 BMW 3.3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 BMW 3.3 (194 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (136 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 BMW 3.3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 BMW 3.3 weights approximately 334 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 1976 BMW 3.3 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 1976 BMW 3.3. 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, 1976 BMW 3.3 (285 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1976 BMW 3.3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 BMW 3.3 | 1986 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3.3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3295 cc | 2226 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 40 L |
