1994 BMW 316 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,327 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1994 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1994 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 295 kg more than 1994 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1994 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (206 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 BMW 316 | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2327 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
