1989 BMW 518 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 518 would be higher. At 3,998 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (270 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1989 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 685 kg more than 1989 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 BMW 518. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 518. (165 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 518 | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 518 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 3998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
