1981 BMW 725 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 26 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 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (247 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1981 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 725.
Because 2007 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 725. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (330 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 725 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2720 mm |
