1989 BMW 850 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1989 BMW 850 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 248 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW 850 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1974 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, 1989 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 365 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (85 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 850 | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 850 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 48 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 45 L |
