2008 BMW 120 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2008 BMW 120 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 120 (169 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 120 weights approximately 279 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 120 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 2008 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 2008 BMW 120 (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 120 1984 Volkswagen Passat
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 120 Passat
Year Released 2008 1984
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1588 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 169 HP 70 HP
Engine RPM 6700 RPM 4500 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 133 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 2600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 12.0:1 23.0:1
Top Speed 224 km/hour 163 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1365 kg 1086 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2560 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 53 L 60 L