2004 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 239 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3.
Because 2001 BMW Z3 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 2001 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW Z3. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Passat | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Passat | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1584 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 51 L |
