1998 BMW 320 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 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 4,130 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton (335 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 182 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. 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 (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 320 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2169 cc | 4130 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
