1996 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2003 BMW 330
To start off, 2003 BMW 330 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 330 (189 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 330 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 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, 2003 BMW 330 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2003 BMW 330 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Volkswagen Passat | 2003 BMW 330 | |
Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
Model | Passat | 330 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2977 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 90 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |