1998 BMW 320 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 12 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Routan (251 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 596 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. 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, 2010 Volkswagen Routan, 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, 2010 Volkswagen Routan (351 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2010 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 320 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2169 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 2096 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 78 L |
