2008 BMW X3 vs. 1975 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (162 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 840 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 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 X3 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. (118 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW X3 1975 Volkswagen Passat
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model X3 Passat
Year Released 2008 1975
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1588 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 162 HP 85 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 330 Nm 118 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3200 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 8.2:1
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1740 kg 900 kg
Vehicle Length 4570 mm 4300 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 1610 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2480 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 45 L