2004 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 40 kg more than 2011 BMW 325.
Because 2011 BMW 325 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 2011 BMW 325. 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 (350 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 325. (250 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Passat | 325 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 63 L |
