1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (158 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 109 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1997 BMW Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW Z3 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | Z3 | Passat |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 333 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1502 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |