1987 BMW 316 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (128 HP) has 42 more horse power than 1987 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 495 kg more than 1987 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 316. (123 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 316 | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1571 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 128 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
