1996 BMW 528 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 16 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton (237 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1996 BMW 528. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 528. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 638 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 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 528. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 528. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 528 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 2233 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5059 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1903 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1901 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2881 mm |
