1996 BMW 520 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 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 22 kg more than 1996 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 520 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 520. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (225 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 520 | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1496 kg | 1518 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
