2008 BMW 135 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2008 BMW 135 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 135 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 135 (300 HP) has 241 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 135 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 135 weights approximately 620 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 135 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 135. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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 135 (407 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 135 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 135 1983 Volkswagen Passat
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 135 Passat
Year Released 2008 1983
Body Type Coupe Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2979 cc 1297 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 300 HP 59 HP
Torque 407 Nm 100 Nm
Torque RPM 1400 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 89.6 mm 73.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 9.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1560 kg 940 kg
Vehicle Length 4370 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2560 mm