2006 BMW X3 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X3 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (54 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 975 kg more than 1996 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 1996 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 (291 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (92 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.7 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 45 L |
