2003 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2003 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 142 kg more than 2003 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 318. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 318. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 318 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:
2003 BMW 318 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 318 | Passat |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1967 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1532 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |