2006 BMW 525 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2006 BMW 525 is newer by 21 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 2,999 cc, 2006 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.

Because 2006 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 2006 BMW 525. 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, 2006 BMW 525 (251 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

2006 BMW 525 1985 Volkswagen Passat
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 525 Passat
Year Released 2006 1985
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2999 cc 1588 cc
Horse Power 215 HP 70 HP
Engine RPM 6250 RPM 4500 RPM
Torque 251 Nm 133 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 2600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4860 mm 4540 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2560 mm