1996 BMW 520 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 BMW 520 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 520 weights approximately 551 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1996 BMW 520 (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (85 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 520 | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 48 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1496 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
