2008 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 120 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 129 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 318 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 199 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 10.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
