1985 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2001 BMW Z3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (228 HP) has 169 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z3 weights approximately 460 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Volkswagen Passat | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
Model | Passat | Z3 |
Year Released | 1985 | 2001 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1295 cc | 2996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 228 HP |
Torque | 100 Nm | 301 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 89.6 mm |
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 | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2450 mm |