2004 BMW X5 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 BMW X5 is newer by 1 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 4,802 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW X5 (355 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (270 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW X5 weights approximately 727 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 BMW X5 (500 Nm) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (370 Nm). This means 2004 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW X5 | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X5 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4802 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2275 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 55 L |
