1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 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 1 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 65 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, both vehicles can yield 280 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW Z3 | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | Z3 | Passat |
Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2771 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 191 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1525 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |