2005 BMW 525 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 161 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 525 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2005 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, both vehicles can yield 350 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2005 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 2005 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 525 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 525 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 226 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
