2009 BMW X3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (189 HP) has 11 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (178 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 232 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (371 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 178 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 78.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 62 L |
