1993 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1993 BMW 316. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1993 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 370 kg more than 1993 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1993 BMW 316 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 1993 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 BMW 316. (151 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 BMW 316.

Compare all specifications:

1993 BMW 316 2012 Volkswagen Passat
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 316 Passat
Year Released 1993 2012
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1400 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 102 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 151 Nm 350 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 1750 RPM
Top Speed 198 km/hour 220 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 13 seconds 8.6 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1190 kg 1560 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4769 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2712 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 70 L