2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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 Z4 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 1984 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
