2008 BMW 323 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 323 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 18 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. (158 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 817 kg more than 2008 BMW 323.
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, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 323. (230 Nm). This means 2009 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 2009 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1798 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
