1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (67 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1988 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, 1988 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 (320 Nm) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (124 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1988 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2630 mm |
