2006 BMW X3 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X3 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (47 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 1010 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 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, 2006 BMW X3 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 327 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 45 L |
