2008 BMW X3 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 885 kg more than 1977 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 1977 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 (480 Nm) has 385 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1977 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1977 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1977 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1977 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2480 mm |
