1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton. (237 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 840 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
Because 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW Z3. 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 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW Z3. (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW Z3. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 2233 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5059 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1903 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1901 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2881 mm |
