2005 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,997 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 55 kg more than 2011 BMW Z4.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW Z4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 BMW Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (370 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2011 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. 2011 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Passat | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3997 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
