1981 BMW 725 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1981 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 725.
Because 1981 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 1981 BMW 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 725 | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 725 | Passat |
Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 215 Nm | 310 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 78.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 18.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2590 mm |