2007 BMW Z4 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 257 kg more than 2007 BMW Z4.
Because 2007 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 2007 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2007 BMW Z4 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2007 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. 2007 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW Z4 | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4775 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
