1994 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 BMW M3 (281 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 118 kg more than 1994 BMW M3.
Because 1994 BMW M3 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 1994 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 BMW M3. (320 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1994 BMW M3 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | Passat |
Year Released | 1994 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2990 cc | 2496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 281 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 78.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1583 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |