2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1993 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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 Z4 (316 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. (150 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW Z4 1993 Volkswagen Passat
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model Z4 Passat
Year Released 2008 1993
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2996 cc 1896 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 261 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 6600 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 316 Nm 150 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 79.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 95.5 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1395 kg 1340 kg
Vehicle Length 4100 mm 4580 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1270 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2500 mm 2630 mm