1996 BMW 523 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,771 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 195 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 523. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 523 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 523 | Passat |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2771 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |