1995 BMW 318 vs. 1975 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 1995 BMW 318 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW 318 (114 HP) has 39 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW 318 weights approximately 545 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1995 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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 318 (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. (114 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1995 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

1995 BMW 318 1975 Volkswagen Passat
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 318 Passat
Year Released 1995 1975
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 1587 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 114 HP 75 HP
Torque 168 Nm 114 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 3200 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1445 kg 900 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4300 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1610 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2480 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 45 L