1999 BMW 323 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 77 kg more than 1999 BMW 323.
Because 1999 BMW 323 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 1999 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 323. 1999 BMW 323 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 BMW 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW 323 | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 323 | Passat |
Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 310 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 1534 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2590 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |