2005 BMW 330 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2005 BMW 330 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (90 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 330 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 BMW 330 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 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 330 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (142 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW 330 1988 Volkswagen Passat
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 330 Passat
Year Released 2005 1988
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2979 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 228 HP 90 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 142 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.1 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 89.6 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 9.0:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 6.5 seconds 13.9 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1505 kg 1130 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4580 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2630 mm