2005 BMW 320 vs. 1975 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2005 BMW 320 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 320 (168 HP) has 93 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 320 weights approximately 650 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 BMW 320 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 2005 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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, 2005 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. (114 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW 320 1975 Volkswagen Passat
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 320 Passat
Year Released 2005 1975
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2171 cc 1587 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 168 HP 75 HP
Torque 210 Nm 114 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72 mm 80 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 8.2:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1550 kg 900 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4300 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1610 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2480 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 45 L