1995 BMW S3 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 would be higher. At 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 394 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 BMW S3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (281 Nm) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3. 2005 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | S3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
