2009 BMW 550 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 260 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 1996 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 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 344 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 550 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 550 | Passat |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1593 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 360 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 489 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 77.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |