1978 BMW 725 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1978 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 725.
Because 1978 BMW 725 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 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 725 | 2010 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 725 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4775 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2710 mm |
