2008 BMW X5 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (328 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 1271 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X5 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 X5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 X5 (440 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (126 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X5 | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X5 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1588 cc |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2191 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 45 L |
