1991 BMW M12 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1991 BMW M12 is newer by 17 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), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1991 BMW M12 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 1991 BMW M12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 329 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (121 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M12 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2480 mm |
