2005 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 9 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3.
Because 2001 BMW Z3 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 2001 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (300 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (226 Nm). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Passat | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Passat | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1454 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 51 L |
