1990 BMW M3 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,467 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (234 HP) has 37 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Passat. (197 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 203 kg more than 1990 BMW M3.
Because 1990 BMW M3 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 1990 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW M3. (240 Nm). This means 2007 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW M3. 2007 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW M3 | 2007 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2467 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 234 HP | 197 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 247 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1463 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2720 mm |
