2009 BMW 130 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2009 BMW 130 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 130 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 130 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (89 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 130 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 130 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW 130 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 130. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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 130 (315 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (146 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 130 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 130 1985 Volkswagen Passat
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 130 Passat
Year Released 2009 1985
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2996 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 261 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 6600 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 315 Nm 146 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3300 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1415 kg 1040 kg
Vehicle Length 4230 mm 4540 mm
Vehicle Width 1440 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2560 mm