2008 BMW M3 vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 279 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 761 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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 M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW M3 | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | Passat |
Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1297 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 338 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 365 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 894 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2480 mm |