1986 BMW 325 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 325 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1986 BMW 325. (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 567 kg more than 1986 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 BMW 325. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 325. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 325. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1986 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1986 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 325 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 325 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1822 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
