2008 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z3 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Passat | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Passat | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 242 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 51 L |
