2001 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 882 kg more than 2001 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2001 BMW 318 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 2001 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW 318 2009 Volkswagen Passat
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 318 Passat
Year Released 2001 2009
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1798 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 141 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 250 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 1500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 84.2 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 9.8:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Top Speed 217 km/hour 215 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 10.2 seconds 9 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1428 kg 2310 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4770 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1480 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1830 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2720 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 70 L