1999 BMW Z8 vs. 1987 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1999 BMW Z8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,939 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z8 (400 HP) has 341 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z8 should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW Z8 weights approximately 645 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW Z8 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 Z8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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 Z8 (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 400 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 BMW Z8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW Z8 | 1987 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z8 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4939 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 400 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2560 mm |
