1996 BMW 528 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 528 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1996 BMW 528. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 528. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 229 kg more than 1996 BMW 528. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 528. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 528. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 528. 1996 BMW 528 has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW 528 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 528 | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 528 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1824 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
