2009 BMW 118 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 BMW 118 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 118 (134 HP) has 85 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 118 weights approximately 580 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 118 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 2009 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2009 BMW 118 (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 118 | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 118 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 45 L |
