1991 BMW Z1 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1991 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 172 kg more than 1991 BMW Z1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 BMW Z1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW Z1. 2005 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW Z1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW Z1 | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z1 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
