1996 BMW 332 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 332. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 332 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 332 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 332 (323 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (170 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 332 weights approximately 42 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 332 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 1996 BMW 332. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1996 BMW 332 (350 Nm) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (225 Nm). This means 1996 BMW 332 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 332 | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 332 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1518 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
