2003 BMW X3 vs. 1982 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (228 HP) has 169 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 900 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 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, 2003 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1982 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1982 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2560 mm |
