1996 BMW 528 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 528 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1996 BMW 528. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 528. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 686 kg more than 1996 BMW 528. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 528. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 528. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 528.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 528 | 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 528 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 2281 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
