1999 BMW 540 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1999 BMW 540 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 540 weights approximately 685 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 540 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 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1999 BMW 540 (439 Nm) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (133 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW 540 | 1984 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 540 | Passat |
Year Released | 1999 | 1984 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 439 Nm | 133 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1771 kg | 1086 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2560 mm |