1996 BMW M3 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2010 Volkswagen Passat. (158 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 827 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
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, 2010 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 (320 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Volkswagen Passat. (250 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2010 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
