1996 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 BMW 118
To start off, 2011 BMW 118 is newer by 15 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 118 (177 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2011 BMW 118 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 2011 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2011 BMW 118 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 BMW 118 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Passat | 118 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
