1998 BMW 320 vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 11 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 320 (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen T5. (129 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 253 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen T5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320. 1998 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen T5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 320 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2169 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 168 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 15.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
