2005 BMW Z4 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2005 BMW Z4 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW Z4 (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW Z4 weights approximately 191 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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 Z4 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (165 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW Z4 1985 Volkswagen Passat
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model Z4 Passat
Year Released 2005 1985
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2171 cc 1994 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 168 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 6250 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 165 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1325 kg 1134 kg
Vehicle Length 4100 mm 4540 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2500 mm 2560 mm