1988 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton (331 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 966 kg more than 1988 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 331 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 2166 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
