1988 BMW 520 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520.
Because 1988 BMW 520 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 1988 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (210 Nm) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520. 1988 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW 520 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 520 | Passat |
Year Released | 1988 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 210 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 90.2 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |