2003 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 BMW 535
To start off, 2011 BMW 535 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 535 (311 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (270 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2003 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW 535. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2011 BMW 535 (600 Nm) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (370 Nm). This means 2011 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Passat | 535 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
