1996 BMW 535 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 BMW 535 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 535 (232 HP) has 173 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 782 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 535 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 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 535 (320 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 535 | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 535 | Passat |
Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3430 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 59 HP |
Torque | 320 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2480 mm |