1999 BMW Z9 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW Z9. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW Z9 would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z9 (242 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z9 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW Z9 weights approximately 179 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW Z9 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 Z9. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Z9 (560 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1999 BMW Z9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW Z9 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z9 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3060 mm | 2712 mm |
