1996 BMW M3 vs. 1993 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 239 more horse power than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 412 kg more than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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 M3 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1993 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
