2008 BMW 325 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 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 114 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 will offer significantly more control. 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 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. 2012 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 325 2012 Volkswagen Passat
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 325 Passat
Year Released 2008 2012
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 189 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4250 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1575 kg 1461 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4769 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2712 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 70 L