1979 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP) has 351 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 1105 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 550 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 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, 2011 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 527 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. 2011 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 BMW 550 | |
Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
Model | Passat | 550 |
Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1471 cc | 4400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 49 HP | 400 HP |
Torque | 82 Nm | 609 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | AWD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 2050 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4905 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1859 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1463 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2969 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |