1998 BMW 320 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1998 BMW 320 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 320 (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 474 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1998 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 1986 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 320 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2169 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1026 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2560 mm |
