2009 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 367 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (47 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 610 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 317 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | M3 | Passat |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1457 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 47 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 83 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 915 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2400 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |