2006 BMW Z4 vs. 1987 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (343 HP) has 284 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 392 kg more than 1987 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, 1987 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 (495 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 395 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 1987 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 343 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 495 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2560 mm |
