2008 BMW 525 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,494 cc, 2008 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 635 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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 525 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 525 | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 525 | Passat |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1296 cc |
Horse Power | 0 HP | 59 HP |
Torque | 245 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 73.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |