2004 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (328 HP) has 150 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (178 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 34 kg more than 2004 BMW M3.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (371 Nm) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW M3. (350 Nm). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 178 HP |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 78.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
