1996 BMW 740 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 740 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1996 BMW 740. (282 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 221 kg more than 1996 BMW 740. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 740. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 740. (420 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 740.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 740 | 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 740 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 2166 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 90 L |
