2008 BMW 540 vs. 1990 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 540 weights approximately 390 kg more than 1990 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1990 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 540. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Volkswagen Passat 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 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volkswagen Passat. (225 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1990 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1990 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 540 | 1990 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 540 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1781 cc |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 157 HP |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.2 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.5 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
