1986 BMW 316 vs. 1993 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1993 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 316 (86 HP) has 12 more horse power than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 140 kg more than 1986 BMW 316.
Because 1986 BMW 316 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 1986 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1993 Volkswagen Passat (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1993 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 316 | 1993 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1620 mm |
