2009 BMW 550 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,799 cc, 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (362 HP) has 303 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 550 weights approximately 720 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 550 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 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 390 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 550 | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 550 | Passat |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1295 cc |
Horse Power | 362 HP | 59 HP |
Torque | 490 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 73.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2560 mm |