2007 BMW Z4 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 BMW Z4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 93 kg more than 2007 BMW Z4.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 BMW Z4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat 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 Z4 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (206 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2007 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW Z4 | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2327 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1362 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
