1997 BMW S3 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. At 4,130 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (335 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 988 kg more than 1997 BMW S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW S3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | S3 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4130 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 2356 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3010 mm |
