2006 BMW X3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW X3 would be higher. At 3,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2006 BMW X3. (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 604 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (359 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW X3. (291 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW X3. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
