1996 BMW Z3 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 Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 168 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |
