1978 BMW 730 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 730 would be higher. At 3,798 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Routan (194 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1978 BMW 730. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 730 weights approximately 263 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Routan.
Because 1978 BMW 730 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 1978 BMW 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Routan, 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, both vehicles can yield 230 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Volkswagen Routan has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 730 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 730 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 730 | 2009 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 730 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 3798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 194 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 3080 mm |
