2001 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 11 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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 62 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, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1502 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
