2001 BMW X5 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 X5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW X5 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW X5 (226 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (158 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW X5 weights approximately 113 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 2001 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 BMW X5 (290 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (250 Nm). This means 2001 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. 2001 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW X5 2012 Volkswagen Passat
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model X5 Passat
Year Released 2001 2012
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2926 cc 1800 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 226 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 7400 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 290 Nm 250 Nm
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1615 kg 1502 kg
Vehicle Length 4670 mm 4769 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1710 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2712 mm