1984 BMW 323 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Kombi

To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Kombi is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,460 cc, 2009 Volkswagen Kombi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 BMW 323 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Kombi. (129 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Kombi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Kombi weights approximately 1217 kg more than 1984 BMW 323.

Because 1984 BMW 323 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 1984 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Kombi, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Kombi (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Kombi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 323. 2009 Volkswagen Kombi has automatic transmission and 1984 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1984 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Kombi will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1984 BMW 323 2009 Volkswagen Kombi
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 323 Kombi
Year Released 1984 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2314 cc 2460 cc
Horse Power 148 HP 129 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 3500 RPM
Torque 205 Nm 340 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 81.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 76.8 mm 95.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.8:1 18.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 8 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1090 kg 2307 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4900 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1910 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1970 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 3010 mm