2012 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2008 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 44 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 BMW 320 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 2008 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen Passat | 2008 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Passat | 320 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1461 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4769 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2712 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
