1995 BMW 317 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 BMW 317 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW 317 (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (54 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW 317 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW 317 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW 317 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 1995 BMW 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1995 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (92 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1995 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 317 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
