1997 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 524 kg more than 1997 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1824 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
