1978 BMW 628 vs. 1989 Dodge Shadow
To start off, 1989 Dodge Shadow is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 628. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 628 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 BMW 628 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 628 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1989 Dodge Shadow. (175 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 628 should accelerate faster than 1989 Dodge Shadow.
Because 1978 BMW 628 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 1978 BMW 628. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Shadow, 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, 1989 Dodge Shadow (278 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 628. (260 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Dodge Shadow will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 628.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 628 | 1989 Dodge Shadow | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | 628 | Shadow |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2470 mm |
