1997 BMW 318 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 318 would be higher. At 5,996 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (414 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 300 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 852 kg more than 1997 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (550 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 382 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 318 | 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 5996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 2297 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
