1998 BMW 316 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 820 kg more than 1998 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 316 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 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
