1998 BMW M vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 10 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW M (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (271 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 372 kg more than 1998 BMW M.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW M. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW M. (340 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW M.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW M | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.4 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1822 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 80 L |
