1995 BMW M3 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1995 BMW M3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,988 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW M3 (282 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW M3 weights approximately 390 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 M3 (320 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (167 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1995 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1995 BMW M3 | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | Passat |
Year Released | 1995 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2988 cc | 1994 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 77.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1075 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |