2006 BMW X3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 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 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 107 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 384 kg more than 2012 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 2012 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 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 10.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
