1988 BMW 520 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 1988 BMW 520 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,989 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 520 (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Let's talk about torque, 1988 BMW 520 (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW 520 1980 Volkswagen Passat
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 520 Passat
Year Released 1988 1980
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1989 cc 1588 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 129 HP 53 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 174 Nm 101 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66 mm 86.4 mm
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1570 kg 1020 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2560 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 60 L