2008 BMW 323 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 BMW 323 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,494 cc, 2008 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 323 (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 323 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 323 (230 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (150 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 1988 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1588 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1215 kg |
