1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 580 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 Z3 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 Z3. 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 Z3 (280 Nm) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1977 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2480 mm |
