1998 BMW 317 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1998 BMW 317 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 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 170 kg more than 1998 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 317. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 317 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
