1995 BMW S3 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 15 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2010 Volkswagen Passat. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 158 kg more than 2010 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW S3 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 S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2010 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2010 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | S3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4775 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
