1990 BMW 316 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 4,920 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (309 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1325 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (750 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 609 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 316 Phaeton
Year Released 1990 2008
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 4920 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 10 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 100 HP 309 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 3750 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 750 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 18.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 2405 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 5060 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1910 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2890 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 90 L