1992 BMW 540 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 540 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (271 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 172 kg more than 1992 BMW 540.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1992 BMW 540. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1992 BMW 540 (400 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (370 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 540 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 540 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3980 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1822 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
