2003 BMW Z4 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW Z4 (227 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 270 kg more than 2003 BMW Z4.
Because 2003 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW Z4. (291 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW Z4 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | Z4 | Passat |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 227 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |