1996 BMW 535 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 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1996 BMW 535. (232 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 333 kg more than 1996 BMW 535. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 535 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 1996 BMW 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton, 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, 1996 BMW 535 (320 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton. (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 535 | 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 535 | Phaeton |
Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3430 cc | 3189 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 238 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 315 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 1995 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2890 mm |