2007 BMW X3 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 BMW X3 is newer by 11 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW X3 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (125 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2007 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, 2007 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, 2007 BMW X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (169 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2007 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW X3 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
