1998 BMW 316 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (108 HP @ 4150 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 125 kg more than 1998 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 316 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 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 Volkswagen Passat (235 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 316 | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 316 | Passat |
Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 106 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4150 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 235 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1375 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |