1998 BMW M vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW M would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW M (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 20 kg more than 1998 BMW M.
Because 1998 BMW M 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 M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 M (340 Nm) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (225 Nm). This means 1998 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW M | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 62 L |
