2008 BMW 523 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 77 kg more than 2008 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 523 | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 523 | Passat |
Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1567 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4775 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1516 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |