2002 BMW Z3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,489 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 205 kg more than 2002 BMW Z3.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 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 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2002 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 2002 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW Z3 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2489 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |
