1991 BMW 316 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Passat (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1991 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 997 kg more than 1991 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 BMW 316 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 1991 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 316. (151 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW 316 | 2010 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
