1986 BMW M3 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 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 58 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (139 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 289 kg more than 1986 BMW M3.
Because 2008 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, 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 (321 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 9.8 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 | 1459 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2720 mm |
