1998 BMW 323 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1998 BMW 323 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 667 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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 323 (246 Nm) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 1977 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
