1986 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 19 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 63 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 275 kg more than 1986 BMW M3.
Because 1986 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (286 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
