1986 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M3 (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 215 kg more than 1986 BMW M3.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M3 | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 10.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
