2006 BMW Z4 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 Z4 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (126 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
