1976 BMW 3.3 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (247 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1976 BMW 3.3. (194 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1976 BMW 3.3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 221 kg more than 1976 BMW 3.3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 BMW 3.3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (330 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 BMW 3.3. (285 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 BMW 3.3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 BMW 3.3 | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3.3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3295 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 68 L |
