2003 BMW X5 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 BMW X5 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X5 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (67 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X5 weights approximately 1000 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 BMW X5 (500 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 376 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (124 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. 2003 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X5 | 1988 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X5 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2630 mm |
