1982 BMW 318 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1982 BMW 318. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1982 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 480 kg more than 1982 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1982 BMW 318 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 1982 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (225 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 BMW 318. (140 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 BMW 318.

Compare all specifications:

1982 BMW 318 2005 Volkswagen Passat
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 318 Passat
Year Released 1982 2005
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1765 cc 1786 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 5 valves
Horse Power 89 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 140 Nm 225 Nm
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 71 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 9.3:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1020 kg 1500 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4690 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1510 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 62 L