1983 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (229 HP) has 170 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 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 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volkswagen Passat | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Passat | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 229 HP |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2450 mm |
